Viticulturist - Vineyard Manager (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Terra Sancta

  Central Otago, Otago

Terra Sancta has 33 hectares planted across four vineyards (of which 75% is Pinot Noir) including the Terra Sancta Estate on Felton Road - home to the oldest vineyard in the sub-region, planted in 1991.  With our older blocks organically farmed, and a gentle approach taken in both the vineyard and our winery, every wine we produce is consistently linked to a particular part of Terra Sancta - our goal to capture the essence of our special place in every wine we produce. 

Terra Sancta is looking for a Head Viticulturist and Vineyard Manager to join our committed, energetic team. This position is responsible for planning and implementing strategies to ensure both great wine and a great business. This means both efficient ongoing operational management of our Bannockburn vineyards, as well as ensuring we produce the best fruit possible for each particular wine, and ultimately our customers who are loyal to Terra Sancta. 

The nuts and bolts of the role are the ongoing management of vineyards that come under your control; from setting and maintaining budgets, coordinating labour requirements, managing irrigation, harvest planning and ensuring both viticulture best practice and safe work practices are followed. 

What we are looking for, above and beyond the core facets of the role is someone with real energy and drive to be a part of a great team, in a unique and thriving business, who sets their goals on being a key part of the leadership team making world class wine and building a great brand. As our vineyards are unique, and as our wine is very terroir-driven, the role requires a lot of time in the vineyard, building knowledge, making great choices and leading the vineyard team.

In addition, we involve our vineyard leaders heavily in the winery post harvest, and throughout the year to achieve Wine Excellence. A passion for great wine, and a curiosity about all facets of the business, including participating in the winery, is also part of the Terra Sancta business model. We do not believe in silos, but in an integrated business with a team approach. 

Qualifications and Experience:

-Viticulture experience – at least 5-7 years with a demonstrated history of effective people management

-Experience in planning labour requirements across the seasons

-Horticulture/Viticulture, or other relevant degree (e.g sciences, agriculture)

-Experience growing Pinot Noir, with organic viticulture a plus

-Strong analytical skills

-Strong computer skills

Personal Qualities:

- Strong and proven work ethic

- Excellent leadership qualities including mentoring and coaching skills

- Willingness to undertake any and all functions required to operate the vineyard

- Team player

- Excellent communication skills

- Strong planning and organizing skills, with the ability to multi-task

- Self-motivated and lots of initiative

- Results oriented

- High personal integrity

- High levels of curiosity, passion for wine, and a drive to expand their knowledge and continually improve

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