Director of Operations - Winemaking

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation allowance

On-site housing

Wine allowance

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a prestigious wine estate in Stellenbosch to appoint a Director of Operations - Winemaking. This senior role oversees winemaking, cellar operations, vineyard liaison, hospitality interfaces, and guest experiences, combining craft with strategic leadership.

You will lead a dedicated team, manage budgets, drive efficiency, uphold quality from grape to glass, and collaborate with marketing and sales to shape the wine portfolio. Hybrid work model offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience in winemaking and operational management within the wine industry, preferably in a premium setting.
• Proven track record of producing high-quality wines and managing cellar operations effectively.
• Strong understanding of vineyard management principles and their impact on wine quality.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all winemaking operations, including grape sourcing, fermentation, maturation, and bottling.
• Manage cellar operations, ensuring compliance with quality control and hygiene standards.
• Liaise with vineyard managers to ensure optimal grape quality and yield.
• Develop and implement annual operational plans and budgets for winemaking and cellar activities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of winemakers, cellar hands, and operational staff.
• Manage inventory of wine, raw materials, and packaging supplies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams on wine portfolio development and product launches.
• Oversee visitor experience and hospitality operations related to wine tasting and tours.
• Drive continuous improvement in winemaking processes and operational efficiency.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Winemaking

Vineyard management

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Oenology/Viticulture/Agricultural Science

Tools

Cellar management software

Operational planning tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate located in the heart of the Stellenbosch winelands, is seeking an experienced and passionate Director of Operations - Winemaking. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of wine production, vineyard management liaison, cellar operations, and associated hospitality functions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticulture, enology, and operational management within the premium wine industry. This hybrid role requires a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex operations, optimize resource allocation, and ensure the highest quality standards from grape to glass. You will lead a dedicated team, manage budgets, foster innovation, and contribute significantly to the estate's reputation for excellence. This is a rare opportunity to lead operations at a world-class wine estate, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern management techniques to produce exceptional wines and deliver unparalleled guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all winemaking operations, including grape sourcing, fermentation, maturation, and bottling.
• Manage cellar operations, ensuring compliance with quality control and hygiene standards.
• Liaise with vineyard managers to ensure optimal grape quality and yield.
• Develop and implement annual operational plans and budgets for winemaking and cellar activities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of winemakers, cellar hands, and operational staff.
• Manage inventory of wine, raw materials, and packaging supplies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams on wine portfolio development and product launches.
• Oversee visitor experience and hospitality operations related to wine tasting and tours.
• Drive continuous improvement in winemaking processes and operational efficiency.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in winemaking and operational management within the wine industry, preferably in a premium setting.
• Proven track record of producing high-quality wines and managing cellar operations effectively.
• Strong understanding of vineyard management principles and their impact on wine quality.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management and financial oversight.
• Knowledge of relevant South African wine industry regulations and export requirements.
• Proficiency in cellar management software and operational planning tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing hands-on work with strategic oversight.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous annual leave and wine allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including international wine courses.
• Accommodation allowance or on-site housing may be provided.
• Access to world-class winemaking facilities and equipment.
• A unique and prestigious working environment in a renowned wine region.
• Potential for career advancement within the South African wine industry.
• Travel opportunities for wine shows and industry events.
• Employee wellness programs and access to estate facilities.