Director of Operations - Wine & Spirits

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Bonuses & profit sharing

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Director of Operations for a prestigious vineyard and spirits producer in Paarl, Western Cape. You will oversee production from grape sourcing through bottling, packaging and logistics, ensuring quality and efficiency.

This senior role requires extensive wine/spirits experience and strategic leadership. You will lead cellar masters, production staff, and logistics, manage budgets, optimize costs, ensure HACCP compliance, and coordinate with sales/export teams.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field (Viticulture/Oenology/FOOD Science/Operations Management).
• 10+ years of progressive operations experience in wine/spirits industry.
• Strong leadership and financial acumen, with budget management experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard and winery operations: viticulture, fermentation, aging, bottling and packaging.
• Develop strategies to improve product quality, production efficiency and cost control.
• Lead and mentor cellar masters, production staff, and logistics teams; drive continuous improvement.
• Manage inventory of raw materials, finished goods, and aging stock with compliance.
• Ensure HACCP and food safety standards and industry certifications.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budgeting

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's in Viticulture/Oenology

Tools

SAP

ERP systems

Job description

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.