Head of Operations - Wine & Spirits

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Medical & Pension

Wine tasting allowance

Professional development

Accommodation support

Employee discount

Company car

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Operations for a renowned winery and spirits producer in Stellenbosch. The role oversees production, supply chain, and quality control from vineyard to bottle, requiring hands-on leadership and strategic planning.

The successful candidate will manage cross-functional teams, optimize processes, and ensure regulatory compliance while driving cost efficiency and product quality in a hybrid work setting.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in operations management, preferably in wine/spirits or FMCG
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills
• Experience with budgeting and financial management
• Proficiency in ERP and operations software

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations across production, sourcing, inventory, and logistics.
• Develop strategies to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality.
• Lead and mentor the operations team to high performance.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety, and quality control.
• Optimize supply chain from material procurement to distribution.
• Manage capital expenditure projects for infrastructure and equipment.
• Develop operational budgets and monitor financial targets.
• Collaborate with winemaking, viticulture, and sales teams.
• Implement sustainable operational practices.
• Monitor key metrics and drive corrective actions.

Skills

Operations mgmt

Supply chain

Leadership

Budget control

Quality control

Strategic planning

Wine industry knowledge

ERP systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Advanced degree or certification

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine and spirits producer with estates in the picturesque **Stellenbosch** region, is looking for an experienced Head of Operations. This hybrid role is crucial for overseeing all aspects of production, supply chain, and quality control within their operations. You will be responsible for optimizing processes from vineyard to bottle, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency are maintained. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operations management, preferably within the food and beverage or agricultural sectors, coupled with excellent leadership and strategic planning skills. This is a key position that requires a hands‑on approach and the ability to manage complex logistical challenges, ensuring our client continues to produce world‑class products. Your expertise will be vital in driving operational excellence and supporting the company’s growth ambitions.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day‑to‑day operations, including production, sourcing, inventory, and logistics.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Manage and mentor the operations team, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations, safety standards, and quality control protocols.
• Optimize supply chain processes, from raw material procurement to final product distribution.
• Manage capital expenditure projects related to operational infrastructure and equipment.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Collaborate with winemaking, viticulture, and sales teams to align operations with business objectives.
• Implement best practices in sustainable operational management.
• Monitor key operational metrics and implement corrective actions as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• An advanced degree or relevant certification is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in operations management, with significant experience in the wine, spirits, or FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of optimizing operational processes and driving efficiency improvements.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management, quality control, and production planning.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience in financial management and budget control.
• Knowledge of the unique operational challenges within the **Stellenbosch** wine region.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid role, balancing on‑site responsibilities with remote coordination.
• Proficiency in relevant operational software and systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance‑based bonus.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and wine tasting allowances.
• Opportunities for professional development and industry engagement.
• Accommodation assistance available.
• Employee discount on company products.
• A beautiful and inspiring work environment in **Stellenbosch**.
• Long‑term career prospects within a leading company.
• Company car or travel allowance.