Operations & Supply Chain Manager

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development

Exposure to international markets

Staff discounts on wine

Team-oriented environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Operations & Supply Chain Manager for a premier wine producer in Paarl, Western Cape. The role oversees vineyard-to-bottle operations, inventory, and end-to-end logistics to international markets.

The successful candidate will drive efficiency, quality and cost discipline across production, sourcing and distribution, leading a skilled team and collaborating with sales, marketing and finance to meet strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Operations/SCM or related field is required.
• Viticulture or Oenology experience is a strong advantage.
• Minimum 7 years in operations and supply chain management in food/beverage or wine.
• Proven ability to manage complex supply chains, logistics and production planning.

Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize all operational processes, including winemaking, bottling, and packaging.
• Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, from grape sourcing and procurement to finished goods distribution.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Manage inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock rotation and minimizing waste.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, logistics providers, and service partners.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations, quality standards, and export requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations and supply chain team.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and finance departments to align operational plans with business objectives.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) across operations and supply chain functions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and adoption of best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Data analysis

ERP proficiency

Export knowledge

Sustainability mindset

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

SCM software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a distinguished wine producer in the renowned **Paarl, Western Cape** region, is seeking an experienced and highly capable Operations & Supply Chain Manager. This crucial role will oversee all aspects of the company's operational and supply chain activities, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness from vineyard to bottle and beyond. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of production processes, inventory management, logistics, and a proven ability to optimize the entire value chain within the wine industry or a related FMCG sector. Based in the heart of the Winelands, you will be instrumental in streamlining operations, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring timely distribution to domestic and international markets. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant contribution to a prestigious brand in **Paarl**, **Western Cape**, and to further develop their career in a thriving agricultural and export-focused industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize all operational processes, including winemaking, bottling, and packaging.
• Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, from grape sourcing and procurement to finished goods distribution.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Manage inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock rotation and minimizing waste.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, logistics providers, and service partners.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations, quality standards, and export requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations and supply chain team.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and finance departments to align operational plans with business objectives.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) across operations and supply chain functions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and adoption of best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience in Viticulture or Oenology is a strong advantage.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations and supply chain management, preferably within the food and beverage or wine industry.
• Proven expertise in managing complex supply chains, logistics, and production planning.
• Strong understanding of quality control and assurance principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, identify trends, and implement cost-saving strategies.
• Proficiency in relevant ERP systems and supply chain management software.
• Experience with export markets and international logistics.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Commitment to sustainability and best practices in agricultural operations.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• We provide excellent opportunities for professional development and exposure to international markets.
• This role in **Paarl, Western Cape** offers a unique lifestyle opportunity within a globally recognised wine region.
• Employees will work within a prestigious company known for its quality and innovation.
• Additional benefits include staff discounts on wine purchases and a supportive, team-oriented work environment.
• This is a full-time, non-remote position with clear pathways for career advancement.