Viticulture and Winery Operations Manager

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Performance-based bonuses

Wine allocation

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Viticulture and Winery Operations Manager in Benoni, Gauteng. You will lead integrated vineyard and winery operations, optimizing grape production and wine quality while controlling budgets and resources.

The role demands strong leadership, wine industry knowledge, and hands-on experience in enology, fermentation, and cellar operations. The hybrid role combines field work with strategic planning across a respected wine estate.

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Enology, or Agricultural Science required.
• 6+ years in both vineyard and winery operations.
• Proven track record of producing high-quality wines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard operations from planting to harvest planning.
• Manage winemaking from fermentation to bottling.
• Develop budgets for viticulture and winery.
• Lead and mentor vineyard and winery teams.
• Align production with brand strategy and market needs.

Skills

Leadership

Vineyard management

Winery operations

Fermentation science

Budget management

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Viticulture or Enology

Agricultural Science degree

Tools

Winemaking software

Spectrophotometer

Laboratory data systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished producer of fine wines, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Viticulture and Winery Operations Manager to lead their integrated operations in the Benoni, Gauteng region. This dual-responsibility role requires a unique blend of expertise in grape cultivation and winemaking processes. You will oversee vineyard management to ensure the highest quality grape production, while also managing the winery operations from grape reception through to bottling and aging. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of viticulture best practices, enology, fermentation science, and cellar operations. This position demands strong leadership, strategic planning, and meticulous attention to detail. You will be responsible for optimizing both vineyard yields and wine quality, ensuring efficient use of resources, and maintaining the exceptional reputation of our client's wines. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity for a passionate professional to shape the future of a respected wine brand in Gauteng. We are committed to sustainable practices and continuous improvement in all aspects of production. The hybrid nature of this role allows for focused time both in the vineyard/cellar and in strategic planning meetings.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, pest management, and harvest planning.
• Oversee winemaking processes, including fermentation, blending, maturation, and bottling.
• Ensure the highest standards of quality control are maintained throughout vineyard and winery operations.
• Develop and manage operational budgets for both viticulture and winery departments.
• Lead, train, and mentor vineyard and winery teams, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
• Manage inventory of grapes, wine, and cellar supplies.
• Implement and maintain best practices for hygiene, sanitation, and regulatory compliance in the winery.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align production with market demands and brand strategy.
• Stay abreast of the latest innovations in viticulture and enology.

Requirements

• A degree in Viticulture, Enology, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in both vineyard management and winery operations.
• Proven track record of producing high-quality wines.
• Strong understanding of fermentation science, cellar techniques, and wine maturation.
• Knowledge of vineyard management practices, grape varietals, and soil science.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with budget management and operational efficiency improvements.
• Proficiency in relevant winemaking software and data analysis.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to travel between vineyard and winery sites near Benoni.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and wine allocation.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Opportunities for professional development, including international study tours.
• A dynamic and passionate work environment within a respected wine estate.
• Generous paid time off.