Winery Operations Manager - South East England

An opportunity to establish yourself in the thriving UK wine industry by leading commercial and winemaking operations at a brand new, state-of-the-art facility.

The client is already a successful wine producer with a clear philosophy and commitment to sustainable winemaking. Once open in September 2024, the new winery aims to process up to 1400 tonnes of grapes annually.

As the Winery Operations Manager, you'll combine three key functions; overseeing wine production, financial/commercial management and team leadership.

You'll be prepared to implement quality control measures at every stage of the winemaking process ensuring consistency and excellence in the final product. You will also conduct regular tastings and analyses to assess wine quality.

The role is open to both UK and international candidates. Overseas applicants will have support throughout the visa application process.

Key responsibilities:

Lead winemaking activity ensuring adherence to protocols and procedures.

Manage, mentor and recruit for an expanding team of winery staff, including cellar workers, winery operatives, and administrative personnel.

Maintain accurate inventory records for raw materials, finished products, and packaging materials.

Coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of required materials.

Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards governing winery operations, including health and safety regulations, environmental regulations, and labeling requirements.

Foster a positive work environment and promote professional development.

Develop and manage budgets for winery operations. Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement measures to optimise efficiency and profitability.

Stay informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in winemaking. Identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation to enhance productivity and quality.

Requirements:

Proven background in a winery management role.

Experience of people management and mentoring.

For international wine professionals interested in this position, familiarity with English wine regulations, climate conditions, and market preferences would be advantageous.

Commercial astuteness around budget management and the ability to drive efficiency and profitability.

Strong communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

Additionally, a passion for wine and a commitment to excellence are key attributes for aspiring candidates.

Remuneration:

Competitive salary + relocation package.

Short-term accommodation available.

To apply:

For an informal, confidential discussion please call Jon Handley on: Office or e-mail your CV and covering letter to .

De Lacy Executive Recruitment will upload your CV to our database and retain some data about you in order to process your application. More information about our processing activities can be found at Please be assured that all contact is treated in complete confidence and your details will not be passed to a third party without your prior permission.