Farm Manager - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Sur place; ZAR 720 000 - 1 000 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Medical aid

Housing assistance

Professional development opportunities

Performance bonuses

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is recruiting a seasoned Farm Manager with viticulture specialization to lead our client's vineyard operations near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. You will drive all aspects from planting and pruning to harvest, with an emphasis on grape quality for wine and export.

The ideal candidate combines deep knowledge of grape physiology, soil science and sustainable viticulture with strong leadership and a hands-on approach in a rural, resource-rich setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years progressive vineyard management experience.
• Proven expertise in grape growing, canopy management, vineyard development.
• Understanding of grape physiology, diseases, and pest control in cool climate.
• Experience with irrigation and fertigation systems in viticulture.
• Strong leadership, team management, and organizational skills.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsabilités

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard management, including planting, trellising, pruning, canopy management, and irrigation.
• Develop and implement crop management strategies to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Manage pest, disease, and weed control programs using integrated and sustainable approaches.
• Plan and execute harvesting operations, ensuring timely and efficient collection of grapes.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a productive and safe work environment.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resources, and equipment effectively.
• Monitor soil health and implement nutrient management plans.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, quality standards, and certification requirements.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Collaborate with winemakers and marketing teams to meet production and quality targets.

Connaissances

Leadership

Vineyard management

Canopy management

Irrigation management

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agriculture

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a renowned producer of premium wines and table grapes, is seeking an experienced and passionate Farm Manager with a specialization in viticulture . This challenging role is based at their expansive vineyards near Kimberley, Northern Cape . You will be responsible for the comprehensive management of all vineyard operations, from planting and pruning to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting, with a focus on producing high-quality grapes for wine and export. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape vine physiology, soil science, climate influence, and sustainable viticultural practices. You will lead a dedicated team of vineyard workers and supervisors, ensuring operational efficiency, adherence to quality standards, and the successful implementation of vineyard development plans. This is a hands‑on position offering the opportunity to shape the future of viticulture in the Northern Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard management, including planting, trellising, pruning, canopy management, and irrigation.
• Develop and implement crop management strategies to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Manage pest, disease, and weed control programs using integrated and sustainable approaches.
• Plan and execute harvesting operations, ensuring timely and efficient collection of grapes.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a productive and safe work environment.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resources, and equipment effectively.
• Monitor soil health and implement nutrient management plans.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, quality standards, and certification requirements.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Collaborate with winemakers and marketing teams to meet production and quality targets.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in vineyard management, with a strong focus on viticulture.
• Proven expertise in grape growing, canopy management, and vineyard development.
• Thorough understanding of grape vine physiology, diseases, and pest control in cool climate conditions.
• Experience with irrigation and fertigation systems in viticulture.
• Strong leadership, team management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding, hands‑on agricultural environment in Kimberley .
• Familiarity with wine quality standards and export requirements is a plus.
• Knowledge of sustainable viticultural practices.
• A valid driver's license is essential.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with performance-based bonuses and benefits such as medical aid and housing assistance. You will be part of a respected wine and grape producer with a commitment to quality and sustainability. Opportunities for professional development and engagement with industry experts are available. This role is based in the unique agricultural region of the Northern Cape , offering a rural lifestyle combined with access to key resources. Our client values dedication, expertise, and a passion for producing exceptional grapes.