Vineyard Manager

This is THE ONE you have been waiting for!  Following some exciting internal movement a fantastic and rare opportunity has become available to join the team as Vineyard Manager at The Sharp Group. 

Founded in 1995 we are a well-established, dynamic force and multi award winning, 300 tonne premium wine making facility on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula.

Our diverse and sophisticated brands include, Leura Park Estate, Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Yes Said the Seal, Cat out of the Bag & Flying Brick Cider Co. Our impressive stable boasts an ongoing suite of accolades and includes sparkling pinot chardonnay, sparkling blanc de blanc, sauvignon blanc, riesling, pinot gris, chardonnay, rose, pinot noir, shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.

This is an outstanding career opportunity and is suited to an experienced Vineyard Manager who enjoys a hands-on management role, working across 150 acres and 5 sites.  Reporting directly to the GM – Winery & Vineyard Operations you will be responsible for all aspects of the vineyards performance by developing, implementing and monitoring operational strategies.  You can also look forward to a focus towards the technical aspects of growing high quality produce whilst developing and building a collaborative and successful team. 

As wine growers our focus on producing super premium fruit is paramount. 

The Opportunity:

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Lead a team of five dedicated full time team members and collaborate closely with winemakers and consultants to ensure the production of premium grapes
• Industry leading viticulture practices with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality
• Coordination of maintenance of all vineyard and associated plant and equipment 
• Coordinate the movement of plant and machinery between all vineyard sites
• Machinery operations
• Management of the annual bird netting program & pre harvest bird control program 
• Manage and provide assistance during grape harvest
• Best practise approach to vine maintenance including the implementation and ongoing management of the Eutypa Management Plan in consultation with the externally appointed Viticulture Consultants 
• Develop, manage and assist with annual vineyard spray program across all sites
• Management and assist with the annual pruning program including managing contractors
• General vineyard maintenance including mowing/mulching, weed control, irrigation, maintenance and improvements of fencing and vineyard trellis, rabbit control and the maintenance of rabbit proof fences
• Manage and assist with performing external 3rd party vineyard contracting works
• Participate and assist in implementing a culture of safety in the vineyard
• Participate in workplace consultation as required to ensure best practice compliance

All About You:

• You have extensive experience in the wine industry sector
• You naturally have a strong focus on quality, safety and team work
• You take pride in your leadership and management skills
• You have well developed business and financial acumen
• A current forklift license and a HR truck license will be advantageous
• You will have experience in a wide variety of tasks in all Vineyard operations 
• You take pride in being self-motivated, enthusiastic and reliable with excellent organisation and communication skills
• Intermediate computer skills
• Chemical User Permit or willingness to complete
• You are hardworking, proactive and enjoy a small team environment
• You have a passion for the wine industry

The Perks

• You will join a friendly, dedicated and professional team
• A competitive salary with company vehicle commensurate with experience
• Employee benefits program incorporating hospitality, tourism, golf, wine and cider discounts and benefits