Vineyard Manager

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Accommodation (optional)

Staff discounts on wine

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, South Africa, seeks a seasoned Vineyard Manager to lead extensive viticulture operations on-site. You will shape strategic plans, oversee budgeted resources, and drive high-quality grape production for award-winning wines, with a focus on sustainability and team leadership.

You will manage a large team, implement advanced viticultural practices, monitor data, and collaborate closely with the winemaking team to meet exact quality standards in a dynamic estate environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in vineyard management with leadership experience.
• Proven ability to lead large vineyard blocks and diverse teams.
• Strong knowledge of sustainable and organic farming practices.
• Willingness to be on-site in Paarl and work outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, including planting, pruning, canopy management, and harvesting strategies.
• Oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, ensuring optimal vine health, growth, and fruit quality.
• Manage, train, and mentor a team of vineyard staff, fostering a culture of high performance and safety.
• Implement and manage irrigation systems, pest and disease control programs, and nutrient management plans.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments, analyze data (yield, Brix, acidity), and make informed decisions to optimize grape production.
• Manage vineyard budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and maximizing return on investment.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of all vineyard machinery and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grapes meet specific quality requirements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticulture and sustainable farming practices.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

Grape growing

Team leadership

Data analysis

Irrigation management

Pest and disease management

Sustainability

Education

MSc/PhD in Viticulture or related field

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced and visionary Vineyard Manager to lead their extensive viticulture operations. This senior role is responsible for the strategic planning, management, and execution of all vineyard activities, ensuring the highest quality grape production that defines their award-winning wines. The Vineyard Manager will oversee a dedicated team, manage vineyard resources efficiently, implement cutting-edge viticultural practices, and maintain a strong focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. This is a critical leadership position within the organization, requiring deep expertise in grape growing, soil science, pest management, and team leadership. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of the vineyards and contributing to the estate's legacy of excellence. The successful candidate will possess a proven track record in managing large-scale vineyards and a passion for producing exceptional wine grapes. This role requires a significant on-site presence in Paarl.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, including planting, pruning, canopy management, and harvesting strategies.
• Oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, ensuring optimal vine health, growth, and fruit quality.
• Manage, train, and mentor a team of vineyard staff, fostering a culture of high performance and safety.
• Implement and manage irrigation systems, pest and disease control programs, and nutrient management plans.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments, analyze data (yield, Brix, acidity), and make informed decisions to optimize grape production.
• Manage vineyard budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and maximizing return on investment.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of all vineyard machinery and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grapes meet specific quality requirements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticulture and sustainable farming practices.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Viticulture, Agriculture, or a related field. A strong BSc with extensive relevant experience will also be considered.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in vineyard management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in viticulture, including grapevine physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation.
• Proven experience in managing large vineyard blocks and diverse teams.
• Strong knowledge of sustainable and organic farming practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis.
• Experience with winery operations and grape quality assessment is a significant advantage.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work outdoors in various conditions.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and potential performance-based bonuses.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international viticulture conferences.
• This role offers the chance to manage significant vineyard operations at a world-renowned estate.
• You will work within a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to producing exceptional wines.
• Additional benefits include subsidized accommodation (optional), staff discounts on wine, and generous annual leave.
• Our client is committed to fostering a respectful and challenging work environment.