Director of Operations - Wine & Spirits

Placements24; Paarl; Híbrido; ZAR 1.800.000 - 3.200.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonuses

Profit-sharing

Excellent medical aid

Retirement fund

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a distinguished Director of Operations for a prestigious vineyard and spirits producer in Paarl, Western Cape. You will oversee all production cycles from grape sourcing to bottling, lead a diverse team, and drive operational excellence with a strategic vision.

The role requires a Master’s degree and 10+ years in wine/spirits operations, with strong leadership, budgeting, and QA experience.

Formación

• Master’s degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Food Science, or Operations Management.
• 10+ years in progressive operations management in wine/spirits.
• Proven expertise in agricultural production, winemaking, and bottling.
• Strong supply chain, logistics, and inventory control knowledge.
• Demonstrated leadership to motivate a diverse workforce.
• Excellent budgeting and cost-control experience.
• Knowledge of QA and food safety standards.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and cross-department collaboration.
• Experience in Paarl/Winelands is highly preferred.

Responsabilidades

• Oversee vineyard, winery operations including viticulture, fermentation, aging, bottling, and packaging.
• Develop strategies to enhance product quality, optimize production efficiency, and cut costs.
• Lead and mentor cellar masters, production staff, and logistics personnel.
• Manage inventory for raw materials, finished goods, and aging stock.
• Ensure HACCP and other food safety standards are followed.
• Oversee procurement and negotiate terms with suppliers.
• Develop and manage operational budgets and capex plans.
• Coordinate with sales, marketing, and export teams for distribution.
• Drive sustainable practices and innovation in winemaking and spirits.
• Ensure compliance with local and international regulations in Paarl.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Budget management

Supply chain management

Quality control

Communication

Educación

Master’s degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Food Science, Operations Management, or related field

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious vineyard and spirits producer located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is seeking a distinguished Director of Operations to oversee their expansive production and distribution operations in Paarl, Western Cape . This senior role requires a leader with extensive experience in the wine and spirits industry, a profound understanding of agricultural and manufacturing processes, and a strategic vision for operational excellence. The Director will be responsible for managing all aspects of the production cycle, from grape sourcing and winemaking to bottling, packaging, and logistics, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency. This is a unique opportunity to lead operations for an acclaimed producer in one of South Africa’s most iconic regions, driving innovation and upholding a legacy of excellence. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership acumen and a deep appreciation for the craft.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of the vineyard and winery operations, including viticulture, fermentation, aging, bottling, and packaging.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance product quality, optimize production efficiency, and manage costs effectively.
• Lead and mentor a team of cellar masters, production staff, and logistics personnel, fostering a culture of expertise and continuous improvement.
• Manage inventory levels for raw materials, finished goods, and aging stock, ensuring optimal utilization and compliance.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality control standards, food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP), and relevant industry certifications.
• Oversee the procurement of materials and supplies, negotiating favorable terms with suppliers.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, capital expenditure plans, and resource allocation for the production facilities.
• Coordinate with sales, marketing, and export teams to ensure timely and efficient distribution of products.
• Drive initiatives for sustainable practices and innovation in winemaking and spirits production.
• Ensure all operational activities in Paarl, Western Cape comply with local and international regulations and standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Food Science, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in operations management within the wine and spirits industry.
• Proven expertise in managing agricultural production, winemaking processes, and large-scale bottling operations.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management, logistics, and inventory control specific to the beverage industry.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate a diverse workforce.
• Excellent financial acumen, including budget management and cost control experience.
• Knowledge of relevant quality assurance and food safety standards.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Experience within the Paarl, Western Cape Winelands region is highly preferred.

Benefits

• competitive base salary, performance-based bonuses, and potential profit-sharing.
• excellent medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development, attending international wine and spirits forums, and advanced training are provided.
• We foster a collegial work environment that values expertise, craftsmanship, and dedication.
• The hybrid work model offers flexibility, blending essential on-site presence with remote administrative capabilities.