Vineyard Manager - Coombe Yarra Valley

Yarra, VIC
Permanent
Full-time

6 days ago

The new Vineyard Manager for Coombe Yarra Valley will be at the centre of vineyard development and improvement plans, part of a strategic shift to strengthen operations and elevate quality. This is an opportunity to drive a strategic revitalisation project with significant investment committed to position the vineyard for ongoing performance, integrating equipment and infrastructure upgrades, innovations, and new technology.Located in Coldstream, just an hour from Melbourne, the vineyard is planted with a range of cool climate varieties, predominately Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Established in 1998, the vineyard has a total of 45 Ha under vine, along with additional agricultural land. Part of the Coombe Yarra Valley Estate, the vineyard produces fruit for the brands portfolio, as well as supplying a number of Yarra Valley wineries.Reporting to the Managing Director, this is a hands-on role that will be responsible for all vineyard operations and land stewardship, leading the team in best-practice viticulture to ensure quality and profitability. This role will also manage the vineyard redevelopment strategy and capital expenditure budget, from planning through to implementation. The Vineyard Manager will be an integral part of the senior leadership team, working closely with the broader wine business and liaising with grape supply customers.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Plan, manage, and execute all vineyard operations and viticulture programs, optimising grape quality, yield and profitability
Coordinate work schedules and allocate resources, enhancing operational efficiency
Manage, train, and lead the vineyard staff and contract labour, fostering a safe, positive and productive work culture
Ensure compliance with workplace safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements
Strategically plan and implement vineyard improvement and redevelopment projects
Prepare and manage operational and capital expenditure budgets
Maintain accurate records and provide regular reports
Work with the broader wine team, contributing technical knowledge and guidance
Manage harvest logistics and consult with winemakers and grape supply customers on timing and delivery of fruit
Maintain strong relationships and liaise with grape supply customers, ensuring the delivery of grapes to specification and achieving commercial return
Implement sustainable vineyard practices and initiatives
Manage a preventative maintenance and renewal program for all plant and equipment
Manage the extended land holdings, including livestock, infrastructure, maintenance, and related stakeholders

Job Requirements • Tertiary qualifications in Viticulture, Agriculture, or Horticulture, an advantage

Experience in strategic vineyard management, or senior viticulture role
Strong technical knowledge and ability to develop and implement proactive viticulture and vine health programs
Experience with vineyard redevelopment, improvement and upgrade projects
Leadership skills with experience managing teams and contract labour
Proven ability in managing budgets and delivering reports
Continuous improvement mindset, with an understanding of new technology and systems
Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work autonomously and take initiative
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Organisational and problem-solving abilities
Well-developed industry networks and connections
Knowledge and ability to manage cattle, an advantage (desirable)
Physical capability, with the ability to operate and maintain vineyard machinery and equipment
Forklift and drivers' licence

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

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