Operations Manager - Food & Beverage

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Wine staff discounts

International wine industry exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for a renowned winery in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role demands strategic leadership across production, bottling, and vineyard support, with a strong focus on quality control and safety. The position offers hybrid work with on-site supervision in Stellenbosch.

You will lead a multidisciplinary team, optimize resources, and collaborate with viticulture to ensure grape supply and product excellence, aligning with regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• 7+ years in operations management in wine/beverage production.
• Track record in production, quality control, and supply chain for perishable goods.
• Strong winemaking process knowledge and QA standards.
• Excellent leadership and people skills.
• Proficiency with production planning tools and relevant software.
• Ability to work in a hybrid model with on-site supervision in Stellenbosch.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production, bottling and related operational processes in the winery.
• Ensure adherence to quality control measures and regulatory standards for wine production.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize efficiency, yield and cost.
• Manage inventory of raw materials, finished goods, and supplies.
• Lead and mentor the operations team fostering teamwork and improvement.
• Coordinate with viticulture to secure grape supply and quality.
• Manage relationships with suppliers for equipment and resources.
• Implement health, safety, and environmental protocols in facilities.
• Monitor performance, analyze data and drive improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Operations Management, Food Science, or related field

Tools

Production planning software

ERP software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery in the picturesque **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Operations Manager to oversee its diverse operational activities, including production, bottling, and vineyard management support. This key role demands a strategic leader with a deep understanding of the wine industry's operational complexities, quality control, and supply chain dynamics. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving efficiency, maintaining stringent quality standards, and optimizing resource utilization across all operational facets. You will lead a dedicated team, ensuring seamless coordination between different departments to achieve production targets and uphold the winery's reputation for excellence. This position offers a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on management, contributing significantly to the winery's continued success.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all production, bottling, and relevant operational processes within the winery.


• Ensure adherence to strict quality control measures and regulatory compliance standards for wine production.


• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize efficiency, yield, and cost-effectiveness.


• Manage inventory of raw materials, finished goods, and supplies.


• Supervise and mentor the operations team, fostering a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement.


• Collaborate with the viticulture team to ensure seamless grape supply and quality.


• Manage relationships with suppliers and vendors for operational equipment and resources.


• Implement and maintain health, safety, and environmental protocols within the operational facilities.


• Monitor operational performance, analyze data, and implement improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Operations Management, Food Science, or a related field.


• Minimum of 7 years of experience in operations management, specifically within the wine or beverage production industry.


• Proven track record in managing production processes, quality control, and supply chain for perishable goods.


• Strong understanding of winemaking processes, regulations, and quality assurance standards.


• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.


• Proficiency in relevant operational software and production planning tools.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing strategic planning with essential on-site supervision in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**.


• Passion for wine and commitment to quality excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive medical coverage, staff discounts on wine, opportunities for international wine industry exposure, and a dynamic work environment in the heart of the winelands. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining strategic remote planning with essential on-site presence in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**.