Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Viticulture

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Incentives

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional growth

Relocation assistance

Cutting-edge vineyard tech

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Farm Operations Manager for an esteemed George-area vineyard in the Western Cape. You will oversee day-to-day vineyard operations, plantings, canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest logistics to ensure high-quality wine production.

The role requires a Viticulture or Agriculture degree, 5+ years of vineyard experience, strong leadership, data-driven decision making, and proficiency with farm management software.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field.
• 5+ years vineyard management experience.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Proficiency in data analysis and farm operations decision making.
• Experience with irrigation, soil management, and pest control.
• Familiarity with farm management software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for vineyard development and expansion.
• Manage the vineyard workforce, ensuring efficient task allocation, training, and performance evaluation.
• Monitor soil health, water usage, and climate conditions, implementing adjustments as necessary.
• Coordinate harvesting operations to ensure timely and optimal grape collection.
• Manage farm equipment and machinery, ensuring maintenance and operational readiness.
• Maintain detailed records of farming activities, yields, and resource utilization.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations in George area.
• Collaborate with winemaking teams to understand grape quality requirements and delivery schedules.
• Implement sustainable farming practices to enhance vineyard health and minimize environmental impact.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture or Agriculture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious agricultural estate situated near George, Western Cape , is actively recruiting for an experienced and results-oriented Farm Operations Manager. This role is crucial for overseeing the day-to-day management of extensive viticulture operations, ensuring optimal grape production for high-quality wine. The Farm Operations Manager will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard management, from planting and cultivation to harvesting, while adhering to best practices in land stewardship and efficiency. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dedicated team in one of South Africa's premier wine-producing regions, contributing to the continued excellence of our client's renowned wines in the beautiful Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for vineyard development and expansion.
• Manage the vineyard workforce, ensuring efficient task allocation, training, and performance evaluation.
• Monitor soil health, water usage, and climate conditions, implementing adjustments as necessary.
• Coordinate harvesting operations to ensure timely and optimal grape collection.
• Manage farm equipment and machinery, ensuring maintenance and operational readiness.
• Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, yields, and resource utilization.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations specific to the George area.
• Collaborate with winemaking teams to understand grape quality requirements and delivery schedules.
• Implement sustainable farming practices to enhance vineyard health and minimize environmental impact.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in vineyard management or a similar agricultural operations role.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, viticulture techniques, and wine grape production.
• Proven experience in managing labor and farm operations effectively.
• Strong understanding of irrigation systems, soil management, and pest/disease control in a vineyard setting.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed operational decisions.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work flexible hours, especially during peak seasons, within the Western Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, complemented by performance-based incentives and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive medical aid and a provident fund are provided to ensure employee well-being and financial security.
• Opportunities for professional growth include attending international viticulture conferences and participating in advanced training programs.
• The role provides access to cutting-edge vineyard technology and the chance to work with world-class grape varietals.
• Enjoy a stimulating work environment surrounded by the natural beauty of the Western Cape .
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates moving to the George vicinity.