Wine Logistics Specialist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts on wine purchases

International travel opportunities

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Wine Logistics Specialist to manage end-to-end logistics for fine wines from Stellenbosch, including cellar inventory, bottling, packaging, and dispatch. The role covers domestic and international shipments, regulatory compliance, and collaboration with sales teams to meet delivery timelines.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in wine logistics, strong ERP skills, and a passion for quality wine.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Viticulture, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in logistics with wine or beverage focus.
• Experience with international shipping, customs and export documentation.
• Familiarity with temperature-controlled logistics and handling perishable goods.
• Proficient in inventory management systems and ERP software.
• Strong communication, analytical and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire logistics process for wine production including cellar inventory, bottling, packaging and dispatch.
• Coordinate transportation to domestic and international markets ensuring timely, secure delivery.
• Manage relationships with 3PLs, freight forwarders, shipping companies and warehousing partners.
• Ensure compliance with wine export and domestic distribution regulations including excise duties and licensing.
• Maintain accurate inventory records using wine cellar management software.
• Optimize shipping routes and methods for cost efficiency and product integrity (temperature control).
• Handle export documentation, customs clearance and import/export permits.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to meet delivery expectations and timelines.
• Monitor market trends and competitors to identify logistics improvements.
• Implement quality control measures across the logistics chain.

Skills

Logistics management

Inventory control

Regulatory compliance

Negotiation

Analytics

Wine knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Viticulture, or related field

Tools

ERP software

Wine cellar management software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prestigious winery and vineyard group situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is seeking an experienced Wine Logistics Specialist to manage the intricate supply chain and distribution of their award-winning wines. Based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, this role requires a meticulous and knowledgeable individual with expertise in handling perishable goods, managing cellar inventory, and coordinating national and international shipments. You will be responsible for ensuring that our wines reach discerning customers and distributors in optimal condition, adhering to strict quality and regulatory standards. This is a unique opportunity to combine your passion for logistics with the fine wine industry in a beautiful region. The position requires a full-time, on-site commitment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire logistics process for wine production, including cellar inventory management, bottling, packaging, and dispatch.
• Coordinate the transportation of wine to domestic and international markets, ensuring timely and secure delivery.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers, including freight forwarders, shipping companies, and warehousing partners.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations for wine export and domestic distribution, including excise duties and licensing.
• Maintain accurate inventory records using specialized wine cellar management software.
• Optimize shipping routes and methods to minimize costs and ensure product integrity, considering temperature control requirements.
• Handle all necessary export documentation, customs clearance, and import/export permits.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to meet customer delivery expectations and promotional timelines.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for logistical improvements.
• Implement and enforce quality control measures throughout the logistics chain to maintain wine quality.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Viticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in logistics, with a significant focus on wine or beverage logistics.
• In-depth knowledge of wine production, cellar operations, and quality control principles.
• Experience with international shipping, customs procedures, and export documentation.
• Familiarity with temperature-controlled logistics and handling perishable goods.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems and ERP software.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• A passion for wine and the wine industry is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work within a world-renowned wine estate.
• Generous staff discounts on wine purchases.
• Potential for travel to international wine regions.
• Professional development opportunities within the wine industry.
• A stimulating and aesthetically pleasing work environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.