Glen Carlou: Tasting Room Manager

Purpose: To lead the Tasting Room team in delivering an unparalleled wine experience, driving sales growth, and managing all daily operations to the highest standard.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications:

• WSET Level 3, CWA Diploma, SASA Sommelier, or equivalent preferred.
• Own transport is essential.
• Fluency in English and Afrikaans; additional languages beneficial.

Experience:

• Min. 2 years’ management experience in a premium wine tasting location.
• Proven track record in direct-to-consumer sales and achieving targets.
• Experience in hospitality, staff training, and event coordination.
• Proficient in EzyWine, Excel, or ability to learn quickly.

Personal Traits:

• Hospitality-driven with a passion for wine, knowledge and education.
• Expert communicator with all levels of wine knowledge.
• Strong sales acumen and customer conversion focus.
• Exemplary leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable, accountable, and effective under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

1. Guest Experience

• Personally oversee wine tastings, demonstrating deep knowledge of the wines and estate.
• Collaborate with the Direct-to-Consumer Manager to continuously innovate and elevate the guest experience.
• Engage authentically with all guests to create memorable, educational experiences.
• Foster deep brand loyalty to turn visitors into Glen Carlou ambassadors.

2. Sales Growth & Performance

• Achieve and exceed sales targets for POS, tasting fees, and wine club conversions.
• Develop and implement strategies with the DTC Manager to grow visitor numbers and repeat business.
• Maximize conversion of visitors to purchasers and wine club members.

3. Team Leadership & Development

• Manage, mentor, and lead the Tasting Room team.
• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise staff.
• Ensure continuous product and sales training in partnership with the Direct-to-Consumer Manager, Winemaker and Viticulturist.

4. Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily operations, including inventory management of wine and retail stock.
• Ensure accurate daily cash-ups and purchasing.
• Maintain proficient use of systems (EzyWine, Dineplan, Excel).
• Manage Tasting Room staff roster, time, and attendance.

5. Events & Representation

• Coordinate and host consumer tastings, VIP visits, and wine club events in collaboration with the Direct-to-Consumer Manager.
• Represent the Glen Carlou brand at trade events and shows if necessary.

6. Health, Safety & Compliance

• Manage and enforce all health and safety protocols.
• Ensure tasting room and facilities are maintained to immaculate standards.

Please submit your CV and a compelling cover letter to: petro@glencarlou.co.za

Should you not receive feedback within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.