Jennifer Wagoner

Global Head of Wine

Professional Overview
Jennifer Wagoner is an accomplished wine industry professional with over 15 years of experience in fine dining and luxury hospitality. As the Global Head of Wine at ZUMA Restaurants, she oversees the wine program and strategy for the brand's international locations, cementing her reputation as a leading authority in the world of sommellerie.

Experience Summary

Current Role
In her current role as Global Head of Wine at ZUMA Restaurants, Jennifer is responsible for curating and managing the wine programs across the brand's global portfolio. She works closely with local teams to ensure consistent service and quality standards, while also driving innovations in the wine selection and guest experience. Under her leadership, ZUMA's wine offerings have been recognized with numerous accolades, including prestigious industry awards.

Career Progression
Prior to joining ZUMA, Jennifer held progressively senior wine-focused roles at renowned restaurants in the United States. She served as the Wine Director at Sepia Restaurant and PROXI Restaurant in Chicago, where she elevated the wine programs and cultivated strong relationships with producers and distributors. Earlier in her career, Jennifer honed her skills as a Lead Sommelier at Michael Mina Stripsteak and MM74 in Miami, and as a Head Sommelier at the iconic ZUMA restaurant.

Academic Background
Jennifer holds a Diploma in Wine & Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), a globally recognized certification that demonstrates her extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of wine.

Areas of Expertise

• Wine program curation and management

• Menu development and food and wine pairing

• Staff training and development

• Supplier and distributor relationship management

• Strategic planning and business development

Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Jennifer has been instrumental in elevating the wine programs at the restaurants she has worked for, leading to recognition from industry publications and guiding the development of the next generation of wine professionals. Her commitment to excellence and passion for wine have earned her a reputation as a respected authority in the industry.

Conclusion
As the Global Head of Wine at ZUMA Restaurants, Jennifer Wagoner continues to drive innovation and excellence in the world of fine dining wine programs. With her extensive experience, industry expertise, and collaborative leadership style, she is well-positioned to guide the brand's global wine strategy and cement its reputation as a leader in the culinary and hospitality sectors.