Anne Marie Baller

Experienced hospitality professional specialising in wine / sake management, buying, and sales within high-end London venues. Proven record of accomplishment in driving revenue growth, optimising wine portfolios, and building strong supplier relationships. Highly motivated, personable, and passionate about beverage, with excellent negotiation, communication and creativity skills and a strong focus on team development, guests' satisfaction, and business performance.

Self-motivated and proactive, with a keen sense of ownership and a passion for the beverage business.

Head Sommelier & Wine Buyer - Bar des Prés - London (Mayfair)

(2022-09)

• Manage and develop the wine and sake portfolio, aligning selection with business strategy and customer preferences
• Build strong relationships with wineries and suppliers to negotiate competitive pricing and improve gross profit
• Analyse sales data, customer behaviour, and market trends to optimise the wine list and maximise profitability
• Identify new business opportunities and lead contract negotiations to drive additional revenue
• Source and invest in fine and rare wines, including futures, working with consignment brokers to generate new income streams
• Stay up to date with industry trends through tastings, research, and supplier engagement
• Recruit, train, and develop the sommelier team through structured education programmes, tastings, and vineyard visits
• Lead the team to achieve and exceed wine sales targets
• Oversee cellar operations, including stock control, inventory systems, vintage rotation, and storage planning
• Manage online stock systems and maintain accurate cellar databases
• Host and lead wine events, enhancing guest engagement and brand reputation
• Consistently achieved and exceeded company sales and GP targets
• Implemented new commercial strategies to improve wine sales performance
• Expanded and repositioned the wine programme to align with business growth

Head Sommelier & Wine Buyer - Sucre - London

(2021-08 - 2022-07)

• Led wine education and training programmes for FOH team
• Managed stock levels, ordering, and supplier relationships to ensure availability and cost control
• Drove beverage revenue while maintaining costs within budget
• Analysed sales performance to improve stock rotation and profitability
• Created promotional strategies, including "Wine of the Week," to increase sales
• Developed and maintained strong relationships with distributors and suppliers
• Introduced a guest loyalty programme to increase repeat business
• Increased wine revenue through more targeted and customer-focused choices
• Improved stock movement and reduced slow-selling lines

Assistant Head Sommelier - Rüya - London

(2018-03 - 2019-05)

• Supported beverage sales growth and maintained high service standards
• Assisted with stock control, deliveries, invoicing, and inventory systems
• Conducted weekly and monthly stock counts
• Delivered excellent guest service and drove up selling of premium wines

Senior Sommelier - L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon - London

(2016-07 - 2018-03)

2 Michelin Stars

• Provided expert wine recommendations tailored to guest preferences and menus
• Delivered wine service in line with Michelin-starred standards
• Managed cellar stock and inventory
• Conducted regular staff training on wine knowledge
• Maintained strong knowledge of global wine regions and styles

WSET Wine & Spirits Education Level 2/3 - Wine & Spirits Education

Degree - Economic/Hospitality