Wine Director

Benefits:

401(k) Bonus based on performance Competitive salary Dental insurance Employee discounts Flexible schedule Free uniforms Health insurance Opportunity for advancement Paid time off Relocation bonus Training & development Vision insurance Position Overview We are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Wine Buyer to curate and manage a refined, world-class wine selection for our upscale retail environment. This role is responsible for sourcing exceptional wines across all price points, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness, and value. The ideal candidate combines a deep understanding of global wine regions with strong business acumen, ensuring a balanced portfolio that appeals to both everyday customers and high-end collectors. Key Responsibilities Wine Selection & Purchasing Curate a diverse, high-quality wine assortment including Old World, New World, and emerging regions Source premium, boutique, and allocated wines to differentiate the store's offering Evaluate new products through tastings and industry relationships Manage all wine purchasing, including order placement, pricing, and vendor negotiations Vendor & Winery Relations Build and maintain strong relationships with distributors, importers, and winery representatives Negotiate pricing, allocations, and exclusive opportunities Coordinate in-store tastings, winemaker events, and staff education sessions Inventory & Financial Management Monitor inventory levels, product turnover, and sales performance Optimize margins while maintaining a premium, competitive selection Analyze sales trends and adjust buying strategy accordingly Minimize overstocks and out-of-stocks Merchandising & Presentation Design and maintain an elevated wine shopping experience through thoughtful merchandising Organize the sales floor by region, varietal, and price to enhance customer navigation Develop shelf talkers, tasting notes, and educational materials Customer Experience & Expertise Serve as the in-store wine expert, assisting customers with selections for everyday use, cellaring, and special occasions Provide elevated service to high-end clientele, including personalized recommendations and collection building Train and mentor staff to confidently sell wine Qualifications 2-5+ years of experience in wine buying or a similar role in a premium retail or hospitality setting Strong knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, and producers Proven ability to analyze sales data and manage inventory effectively Excellent palate and tasting skills Strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities Passion for hospitality and delivering a high-end customer experience Preferred Certifications (not required but a plus): WSET Level 2 or higher Certified Sommelier (Court of Master Sommeliers) Other relevant wine education credentials