Winery Operations Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses & profit-sharing

World-class facilities

Health & retirement benefits

Prestigious wine brand

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Winery Operations Manager for a premier Stellenbosch winery. You will lead winemaking and cellar operations, oversee grape sourcing, fermentation, maturation, blending and bottling, and partner with viticulture and sales to align production with business goals.

The role requires extensive leadership, deep knowledge of viticulture and enology, strong budgeting skills, and a commitment to quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as Winery Operations Manager, Cellar Master, or Head Winemaker.
• In-depth knowledge of viticulture, enology, and modern winemaking techniques.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of operational budgeting and cost control.
• Degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Food Science, or a related field.
• Familiarity with quality control systems and regulatory compliance in the wine industry.

Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all winemaking and cellar operations to ensure the highest quality standards.
• Oversee grape sourcing, fermentation, maturation, blending, and bottling processes.
• Develop and manage the winery's operational budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, train, and mentor the winemaking and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations within the winery.
• Collaborate with the viticulture and sales/marketing teams to align production with business strategy.

Skills

Winery operations

Viticulture/enology

Leadership

Budgeting/cost control

Oenology degree or related

Quality/regulatory compliance

Education

Degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Food Science, or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery in the picturesque Stellenbosch region, is seeking a highly skilled Winery Operations Manager . This executive role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of wine production, from grape reception through to bottling and dispatch. You will manage the production team, ensure adherence to quality standards, optimize operational efficiency, and contribute to the overall success and reputation of the winery. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact in one of the world's premier wine-producing areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all winemaking and cellar operations to ensure the highest quality standards.
• Oversee grape sourcing, fermentation, maturation, blending, and bottling processes.
• Develop and manage the winery's operational budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, train, and mentor the winemaking and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the winery.
• Collaborate with the viticulture and sales/marketing teams to align production with business strategy.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Winery Operations Manager , Cellar Master, or Head Winemaker.
• In-depth knowledge of viticulture, enology, and modern winemaking techniques.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of operational budgeting and cost control.
• Degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Food Science, or a related field.
• Familiarity with quality control systems and regulatory compliance in the wine industry.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Access to world-class facilities in the heart of Stellenbosch 's wine country.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• A unique opportunity to shape the future of a prestigious wine brand.