Vineyard Operations Leader for Premium Wines

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Vineyard Operations Manager for a prestigious Stellenbosch wine estate. You will lead all vineyard activities, drive quality production, and develop sustainable viticulture practices in collaboration with the Winemaker.

The role requires a advanced degree in viticulture or related field, 7+ years in premium wine production, strong leadership, and budget management. This hands-on position offers growth in a renowned wine region.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in viticulture or closely related field.
• 7+ years in vineyard management with premium wine focus.
• Deep knowledge of grape varietals, soils, climate and sustainable practices.
• Proven experience leading large teams and budgets in agriculture.
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with modern vineyard technologies and precision agriculture.
• Experience with pesticide application and safety regulations.
• Willingness to work in a demanding, seasonal environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard operations including vine health, irrigation, pest and disease control, canopy and soil health.
• Develop and implement strategic vineyard management plans for quality and sustainability.
• Recruit, train, and manage vineyard staff with safety in mind.
• Administer vineyard budget and allocate resources efficiently.
• Coordinate pruning, spraying, fertilizing, and harvesting activities.
• Stay current with viticulture research and technology; adopt best practices.
• Ensure environmental compliance and promote sustainable farming methods.
• Work with the Winemaker to meet grape quality requirements and harvest timing.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Manage relationships with vineyard suppliers and service providers.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

Leadership

Budget management

Team management

Sustainability practices

Canopy management

Irrigation management

Pest and disease control

Record keeping

Communication

Problem solving

Precision agriculture

Driver's license

Education

Master's or PhD in Viticulture/Oenology/Agronomy

Tools

Vineyard technologies

Precision agriculture tech

Pesticide application equipment

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Vineyard Operations Manager for a prestigious Stellenbosch wine estate. You will lead all vineyard activities, drive quality production, and develop sustainable viticulture practices in collaboration with the Winemaker.

The role requires a advanced degree in viticulture or related field, 7+ years in premium wine production, strong leadership, and budget management. This hands-on position offers growth in a renowned wine region.