Apply on Kit Job: kitjob.ca/job/2ceyoc

WHISTLER VILLAGE
4005 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC, V8E 1J1

Wine Director & Manager

Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $60,000–$80,000 plus gratuities and benefits (dependent on experience)

About Wild Blue Restaurant

Wild Blue Restaurant is more than a luxury fine dining destination—it's where culinary passion meets the rugged elegance of Whistler.

Since our establishment in 2022, we've embraced excellence, sustainability, and a celebration of local flavors. Our commitment has rapidly propelled us into national acclaim, earning a spot among Canada’s Top 100 restaurants (#33 overall, #4 in Best New Restaurants per Canada Top 100 Awards), a top 2 placement in Enroute Magazine’s Best New Restaurants, and the recent honor of Whistler’s Best Restaurant at the 2025 Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards.

Praised as “The Most Important Whistler Restaurant Opening in a Decade” by Vancouver Magazine and “The Hot Table to Book in Whistler” by Condé Nast Traveler, our restaurant features Pacific Northwest cuisine, sustainable seafood, and organic ingredients. Our team, which includes three Restaurant Hall of Fame inductees and celebrated culinary leaders, creates an environment where innovation, creativity, and exceptional service are part of everyday life.

About the Role

Imagine curating a wine list that becomes the talk of Whistler—a wine program so compelling it transforms the dining experience into unforgettable memories. As the Wine Director & Manager, you will have the unique opportunity to lead our award-winning wine program and elevate our guest service to new heights. This isn’t just a management position; it’s a chance to shape the very essence of Wild Blue’s ambiance and legacy. You will be at the forefront, inspiring both our team and our guests with your vision, passion, and creativity.

Key ResponsibilitiesVision & Program Development

- Curate & Evolve: Design an innovative wine list that mirrors our ever-evolving culinary vision and seasonal menu innovations.
- Craft Experiences: Develop strategic wine programs and pairing recommendations that not only complement our dishes but also create memorable, sensory journeys for our guests.

Wine Sourcing & Inventory Mastery

- Exclusive Selections: Forge and nurture relationships with local, national, and international wine suppliers to secure unique, high-quality wines that elevate our reputation.
- Efficient Management: Oversee wine inventory to ensure optimal stock levels, timely reordering, and minimal waste—keeping our offerings fresh and exciting.

Inspiring Leadership & Team Development

- Mentorship & Growth: Lead and mentor a team of service professionals through dynamic training sessions on wine knowledge, tasting techniques, and service excellence.
- Collaborative Creativity: Partner with the culinary team to create innovative wine pairings that enhance the flavors of every dish,



ensuring a harmonious dining experience.

Service Management & Exceptional Guest Relations

- Daily Excellence: Oversee daily service operations to guarantee that every guest experiences the warmth and professionalism that Wild Blue is known for.
- Guest Engagement: Personally interact with guests, addressing their needs and creating personalized, memorable moments that forge lasting relationships.
- Innovative Initiatives: Develop and implement service strategies that elevate guest satisfaction and encourage loyalty, ensuring that every interaction is exceptional.

Engaging Events & Marketing Initiatives

- Signature Events: Organize captivating wine-focused events—from Long Table dinners, to intimate tastings and themed dinners and educational sessions—that not only showcase our wine program but also connect with the community.
- Strategic Promotion: Collaborate with our marketing team to tell our story through digital, print, and social media channels, amplifying the allure of our wine and service experience.

Operational Excellence

- Market Awareness: Stay ahead of industry trends and competitive insights to continuously refine our wine selection and service strategies.
- Fiscal Responsibility: Maintain detailed records, manage budgets, and enforce cost controls to maximize profitability while delivering outstanding guest experiences.

Qualifications Experience & Expertise

- Proven Background: 3–5 years of experience in wine management or a similar role within a high-end or boutique restaurant setting, with a history of curating award-winning wine lists.
- Wine Connoisseur: A deep understanding of global wine regions, varietals, vintages, and emerging trends, combined with an ability to create innovative pairings that delight the palate.

Leadership & Communication

- Inspiring Mentor: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team, fostering a culture where excellence in service and wine knowledge thrives.
- Effective Communicator: Strong interpersonal skills that enable you to engage meaningfully with staff, suppliers, and a sophisticated clientele.

Organizational & Technical Skills

- Detail-Oriented: Expertise in managing budgets, inventory, and orchestrating detailed event planning.
- Tech-Savvy: Familiarity with wine management software and point-of-sale systems is an asset.

Education

- Academic Credentials: A degree or diploma in hospitality, wine studies, or a related field is preferred,



though we welcome exceptional candidates who demonstrate outstanding experience and passion.

What We Offer

- Competitive Compensation:

A base salary of $60,000–$80,000 plus gratuities and a comprehensive benefits package that rewards excellence.

- Exclusive Benefits & Perks:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Subsidized Educational Programs
- Bike & Ski Storage Lockers
- State-of-the-Art Staff Facilities (private areas and showers)
- Whistler Spirit Pass Program
- Dining Discounts
- Professional Growth & Development:

Seize opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement within a forward-thinking, dynamic environment.

- A Dynamic Work Environment:

Become part of a passionate team dedicated to culinary and wine excellence, working in one of Whistler’s most stunning and innovative dining venues.

- Industry Recognition & Impact:

Represent a brand celebrated in national and regional awards, where your cutting-edge ideas will leave a lasting imprint on the fine dining landscape.

Join Our Journey

This is your invitation to step into a role where your passion for wine and exceptional service will redefine fine dining. At Wild Blue Restaurant, you have the power to craft experiences that leave a lasting impression on every guest. If you’re ready to lead, inspire, and shape the future of culinary excellence in Whistler, we want to hear from you.

Apply now by submitting your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and notable achievements in wine program management and guest service, and join a team where your vision truly matters.
Email in confidence: [email protected]

Wild Blue Restaurant is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Embrace this opportunity to lead an exceptional wine program and transform guest experiences at one of Whistler’s most creative dining destinations. We look forward to raising a glass to your success at Wild Blue Restaurant.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $60,000.00-$80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Discounted or free food
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Store discount
- Vision care

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Whistler, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

- Do you have all these criteria:

Proven experience in a senior sommelier or wine leadership role
Demonstrated management and team leadership experience
Strong organizational and financial acumen
Diploma, or advanced WSET, CMS, or equivalent certification
A genuine passion for hospitality and guest engagement

Experience:

- Hospitality: 3 years (required)
- Customer service: 3 years (required)

Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2026-04-07

Apply on Kit Job: kitjob.ca/job/2ceyoc

📌 Wine Director & Manager (Whistler)
🏢 Wild Blue Restaurant & Bar
📍 Whistler