Vineyard and Winery Operations Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Accommodation assistance

Comprehensive health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a renowned Stellenbosch vineyard and winery in finding an experienced Vineyard and Winery Operations Manager. This pivotal role oversees grape cultivation, harvesting, wine production, and facility management to ensure the highest quality of wine in South Africa's celebrated wine region.

The successful candidate will lead vineyard health, optimize yields, supervise the winemaking process from fermentation to packaging, manage staff, develop budgets, ensure health,

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive vineyard and winery operations management experience.
• Proven expertise in both viticulture and winemaking.
• Strong knowledge of wine production, quality control and industry best practices.
• Excellent leadership, team management and communication skills.
• Experience with budget management and financial planning.
• Proficiency in winery management software and operational tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all viticultural practices including vineyard management, pest/disease control, irrigation and canopy management.
• Manage grape harvest process to ensure optimal ripeness and quality.
• Supervise winemaking process from fermentation to aging, bottling and packaging.
• Manage winery operations including equipment maintenance, sanitation and inventory control.
• Lead, train and manage a team of vineyard workers, cellar hands and production staff.
• Develop and manage operational budgets ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and food safety regulations.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to align production with market demand and brand strategy.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Financial planning

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture/Oenology/Agricultural Science

Tools

Winery management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard and winery in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Vineyard and Winery Operations Manager. This critical role oversees all aspects of grape cultivation, harvesting, wine production, and facility management to ensure the highest quality of wine. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticulture and oenology, combined with strong leadership and operational management skills. You will be responsible for managing vineyard health, optimizing yields, overseeing the winemaking process, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with all industry regulations and quality standards. This position offers the unique opportunity to contribute to the legacy of winemaking in one of South Africa's most celebrated wine regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all viticultural practices, including vineyard management, pest and disease control, irrigation, and canopy management.


• Manage the grape harvest process, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality.


• Supervise all aspects of the winemaking process, from fermentation to aging, bottling, and packaging.


• Manage winery operations, including equipment maintenance, sanitation, and inventory control.


• Lead, train, and manage a team of vineyard workers, cellar hands, and production staff.


• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and food safety regulations.


• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to align production with market demand and brand strategy.

Requirements

• A degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or a related field.


• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in vineyard and winery operations management.


• Proven expertise in both viticulture and winemaking.


• Strong knowledge of wine production, quality control, and industry best practices.


• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.


• Experience with budget management and financial planning.


• Proficiency in relevant winery management software and operational tools.


• A passion for wine and a commitment to producing exceptional quality.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses, accommodation assistance, and comprehensive health benefits.


• You will be part of a prestigious winemaking institution in the heart of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , with opportunities for professional development and innovation.


• The role requires full-time on-site presence to effectively manage the day-to-day operations of the vineyard and winery.