Farm Manager - Large-Scale Viticulture Operations

Placements24; George; Vor Ort; ZAR 350.000 - 550.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Accommodation provided on estate

Company vehicle for work travel

Health and pension fund contributions

Industry conferences and training

Generous leave allowance

Employee discounts on estate wines

Inspiring wine country work enviroment

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for a prestigious wine estate near George, Western Cape. You will lead viticulture operations, oversee planting, pruning, harvesting, pest management and ensure grape quality while collaborating with winemakers and staff.

This on-site role requires strong leadership, extensive vineyard knowledge, and a commitment to sustainable practices. Accommodation and a company vehicle are provided as part of a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifikationen

• Tertiary qualification in Viticulture, Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of vineyard management experience with leadership preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of George-region grape varietals and winemaking needs.
• Strong soil health, vine nutrition, and water management expertise.
• Experience with pest and disease management in vineyards.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license; willingness to work extended hours in peak seasons.

Aufgaben

• Manage daily vineyard operations including planting, trellising, pruning, and canopy management.
• Develop vineyard plans to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Oversee pest, disease, and weed control using integrated methods.
• Manage irrigation systems for water efficiency and vine health.
• Train and supervise vineyard staff, ensuring safety and productivity.
• Coordinate vineyard activities with harvesting and winemaking teams.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, inputs and yields.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Manage budgets and control costs.
• Evaluate new technologies to improve vineyard performance.

Kenntnisse

Viticulture

Leadership

Data analysis

Irrigation management

Ausbildung

Bachelor’s in Viticulture

Tools

Farm management software

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client is a prestigious wine estate located near George, Western Cape , seeking an experienced and results-oriented Farm Manager to oversee their expansive viticulture operations. This pivotal role requires a leader with a passion for viticulture, a strong understanding of vineyard management, and a commitment to producing world-class grapes. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard operations, from planting and pruning to harvesting and pest management, ensuring the highest quality standards are met. This is a hands-on, on-site position, offering an exciting opportunity to contribute to a renowned wine producer in a beautiful region. You will manage a dedicated team and work closely with winemakers and other key personnel to achieve production goals. The farm is committed to sustainable practices and adopting innovative techniques to enhance grape quality and operational efficiency. This role demands a blend of technical expertise, leadership capability, and a deep appreciation for the nuances of viticulture in the unique climate of the Western Cape. You will play a key role in shaping the future success of the estate.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all daily operations of the vineyards, including planting, trellising, pruning, and canopy management.
• Develop and implement vineyard management plans to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Oversee pest, disease, and weed control programs using integrated and sustainable methods.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water use and vine health.
• Supervise, train, and motivate vineyard staff, fostering a safe and productive work environment.
• Coordinate vineyard activities with the harvesting and winemaking teams.
• Maintain detailed records of all vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage vineyard budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies and techniques to improve vineyard performance.

Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Viticulture, Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in vineyard management, preferably in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of grape varietals suitable for the George region and winemaking requirements.
• Strong understanding of soil health, vine nutrition, and water management.
• Experience with pest and disease management in vineyards.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and solve complex operational issues.
• Valid driver's license and a willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

• Annual salary of ZAR.
• Accommodation provided on the estate.
• Company vehicle for work-related travel.
• Health and pension fund contributions.
• Opportunities for attending industry conferences and training.
• Generous leave allowance.
• Employee discounts on estate wines.
• A beautiful and inspiring work environment in the heart of wine country.