Manager - Wine & Cheese

4595 Food Market Corp dba Josephs Classic Market•Boca Raton, FL

About The Position

The Wine & Cheese Department Manager is responsible for the daily operations, merchandising, and sales of the wine and specialty cheese department. This role requires deep product knowledge, strong attention to detail, and a passion for curating exceptional customer experiences. The manager leads a team that helps guests discover pairings, hosts tastings, and ensures the department maintains Joseph's Classic Market's high standards for quality, freshness, and presentation.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of experience in wine, cheese, or specialty food retail
Prior supervisory or department management experience preferred
In-depth knowledge of wine varietals, regions, and food pairings
Understanding of artisanal cheeses, cuts, storage, and preparation
Excellent customer service, communication, and sales skills
Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
Flexible availability including weekends, evenings, and holidays

Nice To Haves

Food safety certification and/or wine education (WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers) a plus

Responsibilities

Oversee all wine and cheese operations, including stocking, display, ordering, and sanitation
Ensure all products are properly stored, labeled, priced, and rotated using FIFO
Maintain a clean, organized, and well-merchandised department at all times
Ensure cold storage areas meet proper temperature and cleanliness standards
Prepare cheese for sampling, cutting, wrapping, and packaging according to policy
Provide knowledgeable recommendations for wine and cheese selections, including pairings
Educate staff and customers about product origins, tasting notes, and usage
Host or support in-store wine and cheese tastings and events
Maintain current knowledge of product trends, seasonal offerings, and new arrivals
Guide guests on building charcuterie boards, holiday pairings, and gift baskets
Set visually appealing displays that promote seasonal features and pairings
Ensure signage, price tags, and product information is accurate and up to date
Coordinate with marketing for special events, holidays, and vendor tastings
Support cross-merchandising with deli, bakery, and catering departments
Order all wine and cheese products from approved vendors and distributors
Monitor inventory levels to prevent out-of-stocks or overordering
Track spoilage and shrink, and document product loss accurately
Perform regular inventory counts and reconcile discrepancies
Deliver exceptional service by actively engaging guests and offering personalized recommendations
Train team on service standards, upselling, and customer education
Handle customer concerns and complaints with professionalism and care
Ensure sampling practices meet health and safety guidelines
Hire, train, and schedule associates in the wine & cheese department
Provide ongoing product training and mentorship
Lead daily huddles and keep staff informed on new items and promotions
Maintain labor efficiency while ensuring strong department coverage
Ensure all alcohol-related regulations are followed, including ID verification and restricted sales
Maintain proper documentation for alcohol inventory and vendor transactions
Submit weekly sales, labor, shrink, and event reports to the Store Manager