Senior Wine Production & Operations Leader (Paarl)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Performance bonus

Housing allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, seeks a Head of Operations to supervise winemaking and vineyard operations. The role requires extensive viticulture, oenology, and production-management expertise to ensure quality from grape to bottle.

You will lead a diverse production team, optimize yield and costs, uphold HACCP-based standards, and align production with market needs. On-site role with competitive package and development opportunities.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in wine production management with vineyard and winemaking experience.
• Proven leadership of operational teams in the wine industry.
• In-depth knowledge of viticulture practices, oenology, fermentation processes, and wine aging techniques.
• Strong understanding of quality management systems and food safety standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Experience with operational budgeting and cost control.
• Willingness to work on-site in Paarl, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of wine production including vineyard management, harvesting, fermentation, aging, bottling and packaging.
• Oversee operational efficiency and quality control across winemaking lifecycle.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve yield, quality, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining premium standards.
• Lead and mentor a team of winemakers, vineyard managers, cellar hands and production staff.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural, food safety, and environmental regulations.
• Coordinate with sales, marketing, and export teams to align production with market demands.

Skills

Leadership

Operational management

Viticulture

Oenology

Quality management

Food safety

Decision making

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Viticulture or Oenology

Job description

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, seeks a Head of Operations to supervise winemaking and vineyard operations. The role requires extensive viticulture, oenology, and production-management expertise to ensure quality from grape to bottle.

You will lead a diverse production team, optimize yield and costs, uphold HACCP-based standards, and align production with market needs. On-site role with competitive package and development opportunities.