Project Manager - Winery Operations and Expansion

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead operational improvements and expansion projects for a renowned winery in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will drive planning, execution and delivery across vineyard, cellar and bottling line initiatives.

The role requires strong leadership and collaboration with viticulture, winemaking, operations and sales teams to ensure quality outcomes and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Enology, Agricultural Science, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of project management experience, ideally in agricultural, food & beverage, or wine industry.
• Proven ability to deliver capital projects and operational improvements.
• Strong knowledge of winery operations, vineyard management and production processes.
• Excellent leadership, organization and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage full lifecycle of winery operations and expansion projects from initiation to closure.
• Develop comprehensive project plans including scope, budget, resources and timelines.
• Oversee vineyard development, cellar upgrades, bottling line optimization, and new facility construction.
• Coordinate internal teams, contractors and suppliers involved in project execution.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to high quality standards.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies; report progress to stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, food safety standards and environmental practices.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for equipment and services.
• Contribute to strategic planning for future capital investments and operational improvements.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

PM software

Education

Bachelor's degree (Viticulture/Enology/Agri Science/Engineering/Business Admin)

5+ years project management experience

Tools

MS Project

PM tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard and winery, is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee operational enhancements and expansion projects in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role is crucial for driving efficiency within wine production, cellar operations, and vineyard management, as well as managing capital investment projects such as new facility construction or equipment upgrades. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the wine industry, combined with robust project management expertise. You will be responsible for detailed planning, execution, and successful delivery of projects that support the company's growth and maintain its reputation for quality. This position requires excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, working closely with viticulture, winemaking, operations, and sales teams. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future of this established winery located in the heart of the Cape Winelands. We are looking for a dedicated professional who can manage diverse projects within a unique industry context.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full project lifecycle for winery operations and expansion projects, from initiation to closure.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, budget management, resource allocation, and timelines.
• Oversee projects related to vineyard development, cellar upgrades, bottling line optimization, and new facility construction.
• Coordinate activities of internal teams, external contractors, and suppliers involved in project execution.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards in Stellenbosch.
• Identify potential risks and issues, developing and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Communicate project progress, status, and key decisions to stakeholders, including senior management and the winemaking team.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations, food safety standards, and environmental best practices.
• Manage vendor relationships and contract negotiations for equipment, materials, and services.
• Contribute to strategic planning for future operational improvements and capital investments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Enology, Agricultural Science, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in project management, with a preference for experience within the agricultural, food and beverage, or wine industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing capital projects and operational improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of winery operations, vineyard management, and production processes.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Knowledge of the Western Cape agricultural landscape is advantageous.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Relevant certifications in Project Management (e.g., PMP) or industry-specific qualifications are a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting experience and expertise.
• Access to the exceptional produce and products of the winery.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the wine industry.
• A beautiful and unique work environment in Stellenbosch.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Generous annual leave allowance.