Hybrid Vineyard Manager — Lead Premium Cape Wines

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Potential for subsidised accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch region seeks a seasoned Vineyard Manager to lead premium vineyards near Paarl in the Cape Winelands. The role combines strategic oversight with hands-on on-site management to sustain award-winning grape quality.

You will direct canopy, irrigation, IPM, harvest logistics, and team leadership, collaborating closely with the winemaker while ensuring compliance and cost control in a hybrid work setup.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Viticulture, Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.
• 6+ years of progressive vineyard management experience with premium wine grape production.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, rootstocks and clonal selections suitable for the region.
• Proven experience with irrigation management, soil health, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Ability to plan and execute tasks effectively, both remotely and on-site.
• Familiarity with modern viticultural equipment and techniques.
• Understanding of South African wine industry regulations and quality standards.
• A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel within the Western Cape region.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, including canopy management and shoot thinning.
• Develop and implement vineyard management plans focusing on sustainability and grape quality.
• Manage irrigation schedules, fertilization, and IPM strategies.
• Lead, train, and supervise a team of vineyard workers.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and weather patterns; adjust practices as needed.
• Coordinate grape harvesting logistics to maintain quality from vineyard to winery.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and quality.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety and labour regulations.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to meet quality requirements.
• Manage vineyard budgets, control costs, and drive operational efficiency.

Skills

Viticulture knowledge

Leadership

Team management

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Remote coordination

Education

Viticulture/Agri/Horticulture degree

Tools

Irrigation management

IPM knowledge

Job description

Placements24 in Stellenbosch region seeks a seasoned Vineyard Manager to lead premium vineyards near Paarl in the Cape Winelands. The role combines strategic oversight with hands-on on-site management to sustain award-winning grape quality.

You will direct canopy, irrigation, IPM, harvest logistics, and team leadership, collaborating closely with the winemaker while ensuring compliance and cost control in a hybrid work setup.