ABOUT BLAAUWKLIPPEN
Founded in 1682, Blaauwklippen is one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, set at the foot of the Stellenbosch Mountains. Today, it is more than a historic farm — it’s a vibrant lifestyle destination where wine, hospitality, retail, and experiences come together.
Rooted in heritage but driven by innovation, Blaauwklippen is known for pioneering initiatives like South Africa’s first Zinfandel vineyards and its iconic Blending Competition. Join a team that is passionate about creating exceptional experiences while shaping the future of one of the Cape Winelands’ most iconic estates.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
Blaauwklippen is looking for a dynamic and commercially minded Head of Department to take full ownership of our Farmhouse & Market lifestyle offering. This is a unique opportunity to shape and grow a multi-faceted destination — combining hospitality, retail, events, and outdoor experiences — into a leading lifestyle offering in Stellenbosch.
The purpose of this role is to lead and develop the Farmhouse & Market division into a high-performing, profitable, and experience-led destination that delivers exceptional guest experiences and strong commercial results.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Commercial & Business Performance
• Drive revenue growth across retail, market, and experiences.
• Develop new revenue streams, packages, and seasonal offerings.
• Monitor performance and optimise profitability.
Guest Experience & Brand
• Deliver a consistent, premium guest experience across all touchpoints.
• Maintain high standards of presentation, service, and detail.
• Ensure alignment with Blaauwklippen’s brand.
Operations Management
• Oversee daily operations across all areas.
• Implement structured systems for staffing, maintenance, and suppliers.
• Ensure seamless execution across weekdays, weekends, and events.
Market & Vendor Management
• Curate and manage a high-quality vendor mix.
• Drive foot traffic and enhance the overall market experience.
• Monitor vendor performance and standards.
• Focus on creating repeat visits and long-term guest engagement.
• Ensure a well-structured and efficiently run operation.
REMUNERATION & WORKING HOURS
• Salary will be based on experience and suitability for the role, ranging between R25 000 –R30 000 net per month.
• Due to the nature of the hospitality and lifestyle industry, the successful candidate will be required to work selected weekends each month.
• Weekend work will be balanced with allocated weekdays off in accordance with operational
scheduling and labour requirements.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in hospitality, lifestyle, retail or destination management.
• Minimum 2 years’ management experience, with accountability for team leadership and operations in a complex, multi-functional environment.
• WSET Level 2 certification (or equivalent) preferred.
• Strong computer literacy, including advanced Excel and MS Office skills.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in hospitality, retail, business, or leadership (advantageous).
• Driver’s license and own reliable transport (essential).
• Flexibility to work weekends, after hours, and shifts in line with operational requirements.
• South African citizen.
• Clear criminal record.
KEY COMPETENCIES
• Strong commercial acumen and business management capability.
• Strong organisational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven leadership skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Customer-centric mindset.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING
• Blaauwklippen reserves the right not to make an appointment to the above position.
• Blaauwklippen strives for equal opportunity in terms of its employment equity guidelines.
Please forward your CV to: craig@blaauwklippen.com