Wine Team Leader

Whole Foods Market is seeking a skilled and proven sommelier to run our new Fair Lakes, Virginia Wine Team. Our Fair Lakes store will be the premier destination in the company, and the Wine Team Leader (WTL) will have the excitement of making this new team a reality. The WTL will ensure that Whole Foods Market’s Core Values are felt in all areas of the Fair Lakes store, from the back of the house, to our unparalleled wine cellar. The WTL will also be responsible for establishing relationships with local growers. We believe that we have a greater purpose than simply selling good wine. If you are a Team Leader with unparalleled wine knowledge, we would like to speak with you. This position requires complete accountability for all aspects of store operations including, but not limited to the following: Team Member Development, Financial Leadership, Merchandising and Marketing Leadership, Communication, Community Outreach, and compliance with all regulations and policies. The successful applicant will have strong leadership experience in a retail environment, knowledge of and passion for high-quality wine, and a commitment to extraordinary customer service. Will do the following principle duties and responsibilities: 1. Select, order, receive and merchandise all wine. 2. Conduct business with vendors professionally, courteously and ethically. 3. Uphold excellent merchandising standards with proper signage. 4. Process invoices and credits; maintain Order Log and Purchase Journal. 5. Maintain orderly back stock, control spoilage/shrink. 6. Achieve margin & sales targets; achieve turn goals; participate in monthly inventory; conduct regular scanning audits. 7. Execute national, regional, and store programs/promotions. 8. Organize regular wine tastings for customers. 9. Teach; share their knowledge and enthusiasm with their teammates and customers. 10. Interview, select, train, develop and counsel Team Members in a manner which builds and sustains a high performing team and minimizes turnover. 11. Make hiring and separation decisions in conjunction with Store Leadership. 12. Establish and maintain a positive work environment, which sustains an exceptionally high level of Team Member morale. 13. Thorough and complete documentation in support of Team Member discipline and counseling activities. 14. Project annual sales and expenses, and prepare annual operating budget. 15. Schedule labor accurately and efficiently to achieve targeted labor expense. 16. Establish and maintain collaborative and productive working relationship with Store Leadership, Specialty Coordinator, Team Leaders and all Team Members as well as vendors 17. Communicate all team objectives and relevant information clearly to Team Members in a timely manner (team meetings, bulleting boards, newsletters, logbooks, etc.). 18. Model an attitude that communicates Whole Foods Market vision and goal for success.
REQUIREMENTS
1. Minimum 2 year wine experience as a sommelier with successful leadership experience. 2. Comprehensive wine knowledge. Ability to effectively teach others about varietals, appellations, various vineyard and winery techniques. Comfortable recommending food and wine pairings. 3. 2 years relevant experience as a Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader, supervisor or buyer (or equivalent). 4. Action plan for hiring team and proven success with team recruitment and selection. 5. Exposure to schedule writing, labor targets, effective scheduling in accordance to store sales. 6. Thorough knowledge of Specialty/Wine related products, buying, pricing, merchandising and inventory management. 7. Food safety certification. If not currently certified, will commit to completing certification within 6 months. 8. Strong organizational skills. 9. Basic computer skills. 10. Analytical ability and proficiency in math. 11. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills necessary for good customer and team relations. 12. Capable of teaching others in a constructive and positive manner. 13. Ability to sell proactively and communicate effectively with customers. 14. Familiar with company purpose, policies, standards and merchandise. 15. Able to prioritize efficiently and delegate responsibilities. 16. Demonstrated decision-making ability, leadership skills and ability to prioritize. 17. Ability to perform physical requirements of position. 18. Ability to operate all necessary equipment. 19. Able to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays as required.