Farm Operations Manager - Viticulture

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance bonuses

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee all viticulture activities in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.

The role requires deep knowledge of grape cultivation, pest management, and sustainable farming to produce high-quality grapes for premium wines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Master's degree or equivalent experience is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in vineyard management and viticulture operations.
• Proven experience in managing teams and overseeing large-scale agricultural operations.
• Strong knowledge of irrigation techniques, soil health, and sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis is a plus.
• Willing to reside in or commute regularly to the Durban, ZA area.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, irrigation, and canopy management.
• Oversee all vineyard operations, ensuring optimal plant health, fruit development, and harvest readiness.
• Manage and lead a vineyard team, providing training, guidance, and performance evaluation.
• Implement and monitor integrated pest and disease management (IPM) programs to ensure sustainable crop protection.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use, considering environmental factors and crop needs.
• Oversee vineyard mechanization and equipment maintenance to ensure operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with the winery team to ensure grape quality meets processing requirements and varietal specifications.
• Manage vineyard budgets, including labor, materials, and equipment costs, and report on financial performance.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in viticulture and sustainable grape growing practices.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Data analysis

Irrigation techniques

Canopy management

IPM knowledge

Communication

Organizational skills

Farm management software

Vineyard management

Soil science

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field

Master's degree or equivalent experience

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard and winery operation, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Farm Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of viticulture in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA. This critical role requires a deep understanding of grape cultivation, vineyard management, pest and disease control, and sustainable farming practices specific to the wine industry. You will be responsible for leading a dedicated team, managing resources effectively, and ensuring the production of high-quality grapes that meet the stringent standards of our client's award-winning wines. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a comprehensive knowledge of viticultural science, and a passion for excellence in wine production. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead agricultural operations in the beautiful Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA region and contribute to the success of a prestigious wine brand.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, irrigation, and canopy management.
• Oversee all vineyard operations, ensuring optimal plant health, fruit development, and harvest readiness.
• Manage and lead a vineyard team, providing training, guidance, and performance evaluation.
• Implement and monitor integrated pest and disease management (IPM) programs to ensure sustainable crop protection.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use, considering environmental factors and crop needs.
• Oversee vineyard mechanization and equipment maintenance to ensure operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with the winery team to ensure grape quality meets processing requirements and varietal specifications.
• Manage vineyard budgets, including labor, materials, and equipment costs, and report on financial performance.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in viticulture and sustainable grape growing practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field. A Master's degree or equivalent experience is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in vineyard management and viticulture operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in grape varietal management, soil science, and pest/disease control in a viticultural context.
• Proven experience in managing teams and overseeing large-scale agricultural operations.
• Strong knowledge of irrigation techniques, soil health, and sustainable farming practices.
• Familiarity with vineyard machinery and equipment operation and maintenance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis is a plus.
• Ability to work in demanding outdoor conditions and manage operational schedules effectively.
• Must be willing to reside in or commute regularly to the Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Employees receive ample paid time off and opportunities for professional development within the wine industry.
• This role offers the unique chance to work in the beautiful KwaZulu-Natal, ZA region, contributing directly to the production of exceptional wines.
• Join a passionate team dedicated to quality and sustainability in the heart of South Africa's agricultural landscape.