Cigar Sommelier

About the role

Under the direction of the Director of Food & Beverage, the Cigar Sommelier is responsible for developing and managing a world-class cigar program, driving sales growth, and enhancing the overall cigar experience across assigned venues. Curates a premium cigar selection, provides expert recommendations and pairings, while educating guests, team members, and leaders on cigar knowledge, sales strategies, and best practices. Oversees inventory control, proper cigar storage, operational standards, and regulatory compliance while supporting financial objectives through effective reporting and revenue-generating initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Leads the training and development of cigar education for team members, designing programs that align with Yaamava’ Resort & Casino brand standards and elevate the guest experience.
• Demonstrates extensive knowledge of cigar brands, origins, blends, flavor profiles, and tobacco components—including wrapper, binder, and filler—and their impact on the smoking experience.
• Conducts customized training and educational audits across multiple venues while staying current on new releases, limited editions, and industry trends to ensure a high level of product expertise and service excellence.
• Responsible for all aspects of the cigar program, including purchasing, inventory control, product organization, and sales, while maintaining cost efficiency and profitability.
• Provides expert cigar recommendations, pairings, and service support to enhance the guest experience and assist team members.
• Maintains an active presence on the floor to ensure exceptional service, operational excellence, and adherence to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino brand standards.
• Maintains accurate cigar inventory and service supplies, overseeing stock levels, ordering, receiving, and product availability while managing vendor and distributor relationships.
• Ensures proper inventory controls, minimizes waste and replacement costs, and monitors damage or loss to support profitability and operational efficiency.
• Maintains organized records and adequate inventory levels to deliver exceptional guest service.
• Oversees cigar storage, ensuring proper organization, product quality, and compliance with cleanliness, sanitation, and applicable regulatory standards.
• Establishes and monitors a preventative maintenance (PM) program for cigar storage and display equipment to preserve product integrity and minimize repair and maintenance costs.
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