Wine Specialist

The Fresh Market • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

48d • Onsite

About The Position

The Wine Specialist will serve as an in-store expert in the selection, tasting, and pairing of wines, providing a world-class guest experience by delivering personalized recommendations and fostering a passion for wine education. This role ensures the Spirits & Wines department is positioned as a destination for wine enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike. The Wine Specialist will also assist with merchandising, inventory management, and events to enhance our store's unique focus on special occasions, dinners, and holidays.

Requirements

• Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with others as part of a high performing team.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of wine, wine production, and the wine industry.
• Wine certifications (e.g., WSET, Sommelier Certification) or equivalent experience.
• Prior experience in a high-end or specialty grocery environment.
• Experience planning and hosting wine events or tastings.

Responsibilities

• Provide outstanding guest service by offering personalized wine recommendations, educating guests on varietals, pairings, and seasonal selections.
• Maintain regular wine sampling events and actively engage with guests to drive sales and enhance the guest experience.
• Uphold high-quality standards of guest engagement to ensure every interaction leaves a positive, lasting impression.
• Manage the wine department's merchandising, ensuring an organized and attractive presentation of products that align with seasonal trends, special occasions, and guest preferences.
• Handle inventory management including ordering, receiving, and storing products in compliance with quality standards and rotation practices.
• Ensure the department is fully stocked, regularly inspected, and compliant with regulatory standards.
• Work closely with store management and team members to achieve department sales and profit goals.
• Foster a culture of teamwork by encouraging cross-departmental collaboration and mentoring fellow team members on wine knowledge.
• Provide regular feedback to department managers and store leadership on department performance and guest trends.
• Ensure all operational tasks, including ordering, expense control, and regulatory compliance, are efficiently managed to meet store objectives.
• Maintain a clean and organized department following all company safety, sanitation, and operational guidelines.
• Accurately track sales, product rotation, and ensure all wine-related activities comply with state laws and company policies.
• Maintain expert-level knowledge of wine, including varietals, regions, and food pairings, and stay current with new product offerings.
• Educate and train team members on wine knowledge and tasting techniques to ensure guests receive the best service possible.
• Assist guests with event planning and wine selections tailored to their specific needs, especially for holidays, special occasions, and meal pairings.

Benefits

• Team Member discount of 30%
• Early Earn Wage Access ( You can access up to 50% (max $500) of your earned wages on-demand per pay period)
• 401K contribution and company match
• Financial Wellness Program
• Personal time off and additional time off purchase plans are available
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance for individual, spouse, partner, and family
• Discounts on pet insurance, daycare, event tickets, and many more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees