Vineyard & Winery Operations Manager

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses tied to grape yield and wine质量

Health insurance and retirement plan

Professional development and tastings

Estate facilities access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Vineyard & Winery Operations Manager for Paarl. You will oversee the full spectrum from grape cultivation to bottling, leading a skilled team and ensuring high-quality wine production.

Strong knowledge of viticulture, winemaking, and cellar management is essential, with focus on budgets, staff leadership, and sustainability in a premium winery setting.

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in vineyard management and winemaking operations.
• Proven track record of producing high-quality wines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard management including planting, pruning, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Manage winemaking activities from grape reception to bottling.
• Develop annual vineyard and winery operational plans and budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Budget management

Viticulture knowledge

Winemaking

Education

Degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or related field

Tools

Cellar management software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected and established winery located in the heart of the renowned winemaking region of Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and dedicated Vineyard & Winery Operations Manager. This comprehensive role encompasses the full spectrum of viticulture and oenology, from grape cultivation and vineyard management to winemaking processes and bottling. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern viticultural practices, winemaking techniques, and cellar management, combined with strong leadership and operational planning skills. You will be instrumental in ensuring the production of high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Western Cape , while also managing budgets, staff, and overall operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard management, including planting, pruning, pest control, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Manage all winemaking activities, from grape reception and fermentation to aging, blending, and bottling.
• Develop and implement annual vineyard and winery operational plans and budgets.
• Lead, train, and manage a team of vineyard workers, cellar staff, and winemaking personnel.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and food hygiene regulations.
• Monitor grape quality and yields, making strategic decisions for optimal fruit development.
• Oversee cellar operations, including sanitation, equipment maintenance, and inventory management.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align production with market demands and quality standards.
• Stay abreast of industry innovations and sustainable practices in viticulture and oenology.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, winemaking data, and production yields.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in vineyard management and winemaking operations.
• Proven track record of producing high-quality wines.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals suited to the region and modern viticultural techniques.
• Strong understanding of fermentation, aging, and blending processes.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience in budget management and operational planning.
• Proficiency in cellar management software and standard office applications.
• A commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation.
• Ability to work seasonally demanding hours, including during harvest periods.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary, reflective of experience and expertise.
• Performance-based bonuses tied to grape yield and wine quality.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan options.
• Opportunities for professional development, including industry workshops and tastings.
• Access to premium wine and estate facilities in Paarl, Western Cape .
• A rewarding role within one of South Africa's most prestigious wine regions.