Vineyard Manager (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

Yangarra Estate Vineyard, recently named Vineyard of the Year (YGOW), along with its sibling site Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard, are two of McLaren Vale’s most iconic sites. Their relentless pursuit of excellence has established them as leaders in innovative viticulture and winemaking. The portfolio of world-class wines reflects the exceptional care and attention to detail in the vineyard.

At the forefront of Grenache in Australia, the 1946 bush vines of this variety are the cornerstone of Yangarra. The 69 Ha vineyard is also planted with a mix of southern Rhône varieties, ranging from traditional Shiraz and Roussanne to Bourboulenc, Piquepoul Noir, Clairette Blanc and Counoise, among others. The 51 Ha Hickinbotham vineyard focuses on premium quality Bordeaux and Rhône varietals and has a legacy of producing fruit for many of Australia’s top producers. Early adopters of organic and biodynamic farming, both Yangarra and Hickinbotham use these principles in combination with regenerative farming practices to increase biodiversity, soil and vine health, and fruit quality. Jackson Family Wines acquired Yangarra Estate in 2000 and the Hickinbotham vineyard in 2012.

Reporting to the General Manager, this role will be responsible for all aspects of the two company-owned vineyards, from day-to-day operations through to strategy and financial responsibility. The Vineyard Manager will be a proactive leader, inspiring a cohesive and highly skilled team, providing technical direction and guidance. They will also manage the equipment renewal program and contribute to opportunities for further innovation and growth.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Direct and oversee all aspects of the company-owned vineyards, ensuring they are managed to the highest standards using biodynamic, organic, and regenerative farming practices
• Oversee the vineyard staff, providing leadership by fostering a positive team culture through coaching, mentoring, and professional development
• Oversee vineyard contractors, ensuring work quality and compliance with agreed specifications
• Lead WH&S compliance efforts, ensuring all activities are conducted in line with company procedures and industry best practices.
• Manage vineyard operating and capital expenditure budgets, with full financial accountability for vineyard performance
• Ensure the delivery of internal grape supply and external grape sales within budget, maintaining fiscal responsibility across all grape-related outputs
• Lead all capital vineyard development projects, including land preparation, sourcing, planting and quality control
• Strategically plan and manage all viticulture programs, including virus and trunk disease management
• Manage harvest logistics in close coordination with the Winemaker
• Maintain and oversee asset management and preventative maintenance programs for all vineyard equipment and machinery
• Explore opportunities for continuous improvement, including benchmarking of operations, to enhance practices, soil health and fruit quality

• Tertiary qualifications in Agriculture, Horticulture or Viticulture
• Demonstrated experience managing vineyard operations
• Strong technical knowledge and capability to design and implement viticultural programs
• Business acumen and experience creating and managing CAPEX and OPEX budgets
• A demonstrated interest and knowledge of regenerative, organic and/or biodynamic farming practices an advantage
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate, mentor, and coach a team
• Sound understanding of WHS legislation, policies, and best practices
• Practical experience in all vineyard operations and solid understanding of vineyard equipment
• Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work autonomously and take initiative
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present confidently to groups and engage professionally with internal and external stakeholders
• Excellent analytical, organisational and planning skills, and problem-solving capabilities
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively and build effective relationships across all levels
• Passionate about the wine industry and committed to continuous improvement with a growth mindset and strong intellectual curiosity

View more information about the role and request a copy of the position description at www.winenet.com.au/recruitment