Vineyard & Winery Operations Manager - Stellenbosch

For a person who is truly passionate about cultivating something special, this is an exceptional opportunity to join Idiom Vineyards. The successful candidate will work with a diverse range of rare and internationally significant grape varieties, including both classic cultivars and Mediterranean varietals seldom found elsewhere in the Cape. The role offers the opportunity to influence quality from vineyard to bottle while working within a dynamic, quality-focused environment.

Purpose of the Role

To manage all vineyard, winery, and production operations to ensure the delivery of high-quality grapes and wines while maintaining cost efficiency, team performance, and estate standards.

Key Responsibilities

Vineyard Management

• Manage all vineyard team operations, including pruning, irrigation, canopy management, spraying, harvesting, and replanting.
• Monitor vine health, crop levels, and grape quality.
• Develop and implement annual vineyard plans and budgets.
• Manage vineyard costs and ensure efficient use of labour, water, chemicals, and equipment.
• Maintain vineyard records and compliance requirements in the vineyard.

Team Management

• Lead, train, and supervise all vineyard and cellar staff.
• Manage labour planning, productivity, attendance, and performance.
• Ensure health and safety standards are maintained.

Winery Operations

• Oversee the operation side of small winery and production facility, alongside head winemaker.
• Coordinate harvest logistics, grape intake, winemaking support, bottling, and stock control.
• Ensure production targets, quality standards, and timelines are achieved.
• Manage winery consumables, equipment, and maintenance.

Financial & Operational Management

• Prepare and manage vineyard and production budgets.
• Monitor costs, margins, and operational efficiency.
• Manage suppliers, contractors, and service providers.
• Produce regular reports on vineyard performance, production, and costs.

Estate Maintenance

• Oversee maintenance of irrigation systems, farm equipment, buildings, and infrastructure.
• Ensure machinery and equipment are serviced and operational.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Viticulture, Agriculture, Oenology, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in vineyard and/or winery operations.
• Strong leadership, budgeting, and operational management skills.
• Hands-on approach with attention to detail and quality.

Key Performance Indicators

• Grape quality and vineyard health.
• Vineyard cost management.
• Labour productivity.
• Production efficiency.
• Budget adherence.
• Compliance and safety standards.
• Overall estate and winery performance

Updated CV to be sent to info@bottegafamilywine.co.za. 

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of application, please assume that your application was unsuccessful.