Tasting Room Manager - Dekkersvlei Vineyards

The Tasting Room Manager is responsible for the daily operation of the tasting room, ensuring exceptional customer service, effective staff management, accurate stock control, and smooth day-to-day operations while maintaining the high standards of the Dekkersvlei brand.

Duties & Responsibilities

Staff Management

• Recruit, train and mentor Front of House staff.
• Conduct monthly staff training sessions.
• Ensure all staff are knowledgeable about wines, food menu, and customer service standards.
• Prepare and manage weekly staff shifts and rosters.
• Allocate daily duties to FOH staff.
• Monitor staff performance and provide ongoing coaching.
• Handle disciplinary matters according to company procedures.
• Ensure staff adhere to company policies, dress code and hygiene standards.

Front of House Operations

• Oversee the daily operation of the tasting room.
• Ensure exceptional customer service at all times.
• Welcome VIP guests and assist with customer complaints professionally.
• Ensure the tasting room, patios, restrooms and guest areas remain clean and presentable.
• Ensure opening and closing procedures are completed daily.
• Maintain high standards of presentation throughout the property.

Stock Control

• Conduct daily Front of House stock counts, including tasting wines.
• Complete monthly stock counts with the Stock Controller.
• Monitor stock movement and minimise losses.
• Report damaged, missing or expired stock.
• Place weekly stock orders when required.
• Ensure all stock transfers are recorded correctly.

Cash Handling

• Responsible for petty cash.
• Complete weekly petty cash reconciliations.
• Prepare monthly petty cash reports.
• Ensure daily cash-ups are accurate.
• Investigate and report any cash discrepancies immediately.

Administration

• Submit daily operational reports to management.
• Maintain accurate sales and stock records.
• Manage tasting room bookings and reservations.
• Respond to customer emails and telephone enquiries professionally.
• Maintain filing and operational documentation.

Sales & Marketing

• Promote Dekkersvlei wines, experiences and events.
• Encourage wine club memberships and wine sales.
• Upsell wine tastings, food pairings and retail products.
• Assist with special events and functions.
• Ensure promotional material is displayed correctly.

Communication

• Maintain daily communication with management.
• Attend management meetings when required.
• Communicate operational challenges and solutions promptly.
• Liaise with the kitchen, cellar, cleaning team and other departments to ensure smooth daily operations.

Health & Safety

• Ensure compliance with food safety and liquor regulations.
• Monitor cleanliness and hygiene standards.
• Ensure staff follow all health and safety procedures.
• Report maintenance issues immediately.
• Ensure security procedures are followed when opening and closing the premises.

Key Attributes

• Excellent leadership and organisational skills.
• Strong customer service focus.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Honest, reliable and trustworthy.
• Professional appearance and attitude.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office and POS systems).
• Wine knowledge will be advantageous.

Requirements

• Previous experience in a Tasting Room or Restaurant Management role.
• Experience managing staff.
• Stock control and cash handling experience.
• Valid driver’s licence will be advantageous.
• Ability to work weekends, public holidays and during events.