Lead Horticulturalist - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous leave

International travel

Professional development

Subsidized accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Horticulturalist (Viticulture) to oversee grape production from planting to harvest, ensuring premium quality for world-class wines. This hands-on leadership role requires deep viticulture knowledge and a proven track record.

You will lead vineyard teams, implement advanced viticultural methods, manage budgets, and collaborate with winemakers. A Master’s degree and 10+ years in viticulture with leadership experience are required, with

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or closely related field.
• 10+ years hands-on viticulture experience, with 5+ years in leadership.
• Deep understanding of grape physiology and quality factors.
• Proven track record in premium wine production.
• Knowledge of South African wine regions and climate variations.
• Experience with irrigation, soil management, IPM.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans for premium grape quality.
• Oversee planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Lead vineyard staff with focus on safety, performance and best practices.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments for vine health, development and risks.
• Select grape varietals and rootstocks for sites and market demands.
• Implement advanced viticultural techniques and water management strategies.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resources and inventory.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet quality specs and styles.
• Maintain detailed records of activities, yield and quality.

Skills

Leadership

Viticulture expertise

Team management

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture

Tools

Irrigation systems management

Soil management

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly experienced and visionary Lead Horticulturalist with a specialization in Viticulture to join their premier vineyard operations in Cape Town, Western Cape. This critical role involves overseeing all aspects of grape cultivation, from vineyard establishment and management to harvesting, ensuring the production of premium quality grapes for world-class wine production. You will be responsible for the strategic direction of vineyard practices, focusing on optimizing grape quality, yield, and sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of grape varietals, soil health, climate adaptation, and modern viticultural techniques. This is a hands-on role requiring strong leadership, technical expertise, and a passion for oenology and agriculture. You will lead a team of vineyard technicians and workers, fostering a culture of precision, efficiency, and continuous improvement. Your work will directly impact the quality and reputation of our client's wines, making this a highly influential position within the organization. The role requires a deep appreciation for the nuances of the Cape Town terroir and a commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible farming. You will be expected to stay at the forefront of viticultural research and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, focusing on premium grape quality and sustainable practices.
• Oversee all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Manage and mentor a team of vineyard staff, ensuring high performance, safety, and adherence to best practices.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments to monitor vine health, grape development, and potential risks.
• Select appropriate grape varietals and rootstocks for specific vineyard sites and market demands.
• Implement advanced viticultural techniques, such as precision agriculture, cover cropping, and water management strategies.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resources, and inventory effectively.
• Collaborate with winemakers to ensure harvested grapes meet quality specifications and stylistic requirements.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yield data, and quality assessments.
• Research and integrate new technologies and methodologies to enhance vineyard performance and sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in viticulture, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Deep understanding of grape physiology, phenology, and the factors influencing grape quality.
• Proven expertise in managing vineyards for premium wine production, with a strong portfolio of successful harvests.
• Knowledge of South African wine regions, climate variations, and their impact on viticulture.
• Experience with irrigation systems, soil management, and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Proficiency in vineyard mapping, data analysis, and relevant software.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, outdoor environment and adapt to changing conditions.
• Valid driver's license and the ability to travel within the Western Cape region as needed.
• A passion for wine and a commitment to excellence in viticulture.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package reflective of extensive experience and expertise.
• Annual bonus structure tied to vineyard performance and grape quality.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous leave allowance and time off.
• Opportunities for international wine industry engagement and travel.
• Access to cutting-edge vineyard technology and research.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for travel.
• Professional development opportunities and participation in industry workshops.
• A chance to work in one of the world's most renowned wine-producing regions.
• Subsidized accommodation options available.