Assistant Tasting Room Manager - Hermanus, Western Cape

To provide an exceptional guest experience while supporting the daily operation of the tasting room, wine sales, reservations and customer service.

Department: Tasting Room
Reports to: Tasting Room Manager / General Manager
Location: Whalehaven Wines, Hermanus

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome guests and provide friendly, professional service.
• Conduct wine tastings and confidently present the Whalehaven wine range.
• Provide knowledgeable recommendations and assist customers with wine purchases.
• Process sales and assist with customer orders.
• Manage tasting-room enquiries and reservations via email, telephone and other communication channels.
• Ensure bookings are accurately recorded and the tasting room is prepared for guests.
• Maintain a clean, organised and welcoming tasting-room environment.
• Ensure wine, glassware, menus and tasting-room supplies are adequately stocked and presented.
• Assist with opening and closing procedures and general daily operations.
• Maintain good knowledge of Whalehaven wines, vintages, pricing and brand story.
• Assist with social media, content creation, promotions and tasting-room marketing when required.
• Assist with private tastings, events and special guest visits.
• Provide basic assistance with trade enquiries and bookings, referring sales or account-related enquiries to the Tasting Room Manager.
• Complete relevant administrative tasks and communicate guest feedback, operational issues and sales opportunities to management.
• Work towards tasting-room sales targets and contribute positively to the overall performance of the team.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Confident and engaging when presenting wine.
• Genuine interest in wine and hospitality.
• Strong sales and interpersonal skills.
• Organised, reliable and attentive to detail.
• Professional, friendly and well presented.
• Able to multitask and work independently.
• Willingness to learn and take initiative.
• Ability to represent the Whalehaven brand professionally.

Job Requirements

• Previous experience in hospitality, customer service or sales is preferred.
• A basic knowledge of wine is advantageous; willingness to learn is essential.
• WSET Level 1 or Level 2 qualification is advantageous.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong customer-service and sales ability.
• Confident speaking to and engaging with guests.
• Good organisational and administrative skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Professional, reliable and well presented.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced hospitality environment.
• Computer literacy and the ability to communicate professionally via email and other digital platforms.
• Availability to work weekends, public holidays and events when required.
• A valid driver's licence is advantageous.