Senior Viticulture Lead - External Vineyards & Sourcing

Craven Cottage CC; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Craven Cottage CC in Stellenbosch seeks a senior grape procurement lead with extensive viticulture and winemaking experience. You will contract grape supply, negotiate pricing with producers, and lead third‑party bulk wine sourcing in line with our sourcing strategy.

The role requires a B.Sc Agric in Viticulture and Winemaking, 10+ years in a senior winegrape production role, and 5–7 years working with grape producers.

Qualifications

• Strong negotiation and commercial acumen are essential.
• Hands-on, field-based approach with producers throughout the season.
• Experience contracting winegrapes and managing grape supply relationships.

Responsibilities

• Contract new and existing grape and bulk wine supply agreements yearly.
• Negotiate annual grape pricing with producers within budget and strategy.
• Lead third-party bulk wine sourcing per sourcing strategy.
• Build strong relationships with growers and provide performance feedback.
• Provide viticultural guidance and technical support to producers.
• Coordinate harvest scheduling and grape intake planning across facilities.
• Monitor ripeness levels during harvest to support decisions.
• Maintain records of production, costs, and traceability data.
• Support ESG and sustainability certifications (IPW, WIETA, BSCI).
• Participate in the CAV forum sharing best practices.

Skills

Negotiation

Relationship building

Viticulture knowledge

Commercial acumen

Education

B.Sc Agric in Viticulture and Winemaking

Job description

Craven Cottage CC in Stellenbosch seeks a senior grape procurement lead with extensive viticulture and winemaking experience. You will contract grape supply, negotiate pricing with producers, and lead third‑party bulk wine sourcing in line with our sourcing strategy.

The role requires a B.Sc Agric in Viticulture and Winemaking, 10+ years in a senior winegrape production role, and 5–7 years working with grape producers.