About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to lead our viticulture operations as Head of Viticulture and Grape Supply. Reporting to the General Manager, this senior leadership role offers an exciting opportunity to drive expansion plans and continually improve our vineyard operations.
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* Direct and oversee viticultural and site operations at all owned and leased vineyards, ensuring safety, quality, and end-use standards are met.
* Benchmark against industry best practices to ensure our grape supply chain remains competitive and sustainable.
* Cultivate a positive team culture by mentoring and developing vineyard staff, promoting a collaborative environment that fosters growth and innovation.
Viticulture Operations Overview
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience managing vineyard and/or winery operations, with a strong understanding of cool climate regions and sustainable farming practices. They will be responsible for:
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1. Developing and implementing long-term strategic plans for our viticulture operations, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
2. Managing the grape supply program, including contract negotiations with growers and suppliers.
3. Maintaining fiscal responsibility for delivering the grape supply to budget, while ensuring operational efficiency and effectiveness.
4. Safeguarding workplace health and safety (WHS) compliance across all vineyards and related activities.
5. Strategically planning and managing the Giant Steps' grape supply chain, including own vineyards, leased sites, and growers.
6. Fiscal responsibility for delivery of the grape supply to budget, managing vineyard operating expenditure and capital expenditure budgets.
7. Contract negotiations for grower and contract vineyard fruit supply.
8. Strategic and long-term planning for Giant Steps' viticulture operations, including replanting and vineyard establishment programs for all sites.
9. Lead program and operations for sustainability targets and regenerative viticulture.
10. Local and interstate logistics, planning, and execution for grape and vineyard equipment movement.
11. Asset management and preventative maintenance program for all Giant Steps' vineyard and related machinery.
12. Overall management of the general upkeep and maintenance of all properties and vineyards.
13. Management and responsibility for contractors and labour hire.
Key Requirements
To be successful in this role, you will need:
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* A tertiary qualification in Viticulture, Oenology or a related discipline.
* Highly developed leadership skills and experience managing a diverse team.
* Relevant experience managing vineyard and/or winery operations, preferably in a cool climate region.
* Strong technical knowledge and ability to set viticulture programs.
* Business acumen, including setting strategic and long-term plans, managing CAPEX/OPEX budgets, and providing reports.
* Passionate about the wine industry, with experience as a brand advocate an advantage.
* A well-developed understanding of WHS legislation, policies, and best practice.
* Ability to communicate effectively with a broad range of audiences.
* Working knowledge of sustainable and regenerative farming practices, an advantage.
* Practical experience in vineyard operations and ability to operate equipment, an advantage.
* Excellent organisation, planning, and problem-solving skills.
* Driven, motivated, and able to take the initiative.
* Attention to detail in work and personal presentation.
* Ability to work extended hours when required.
* Capacity for regular domestic travel.
* A current driver's licence.
* Forklift and truck licence, an advantage.
* Possession of permanent Australian work rights.
About Us
We offer a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters growth, innovation, and collaboration. If you are passionate about viticulture and grape supply, and possess the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.Visit www.winenet.com.au/recruitment/for more information.