When it comes to overseeing the day-to-day operations at a vineyard or winery, a vineyard manager relies on his knowledge of the winemaking industry. These experts oversee not only the viticultural process of growing grapes and turning them into wine, but also administrative tasks such as budgeting and record keeping. A vineyard manager must hire and train employees in order for them to be successful in the vineyard. Finally, during tours, wine tastings, and other events, he must be prepared to interact with the public.
Overseeing the grape growing process is one of the most important responsibilities of any vineyard manager. These experts create a site plan that specifies where grapes should be planted and harvested each year. The vineyard manager is in charge of the pruning process, which is essential for achieving the desired yield. To achieve the desired flavor, he blends different grape varieties and works to provide these grapes with the nutrients they require to fully develop. Pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals used in the winemaking process must be well-understood the vineyard manager.
Vineyard managers assess potential employees and make hiring decisions to help the vineyard meet its production and sales targets. They also train these employees on how to carry out their responsibilities and assist in ensuring that proper safety measures are in place to protect employees while they work. In addition to standard human resources tasks, a vineyard manager is responsible for tracking employee hours and handling payroll.
In addition to their work in the field, these professionals may also be in charge of the vineyard’s business operations. On behalf of the owner, a vineyard manager can manage money and keep track of the company’s budget. He handles basic bookkeeping and accounting duties, as well as keeping all necessary business records on a computer or on paper. Managers are also in charge of ordering necessary materials and equipment, as well as ensuring that vendors are paid on time.
The manager of open-to-the-public vineyards spends a lot of time interacting with visitors. He could give tours of wineries or host tasting events. A vineyard manager is frequently expected to represent the company at local wine events or fairs held off-site. He interacts with commercial customers, such as restaurants and grocers who sell the vineyard’s wine, and assists in marketing the company’s products to a wider audience in order to boost sales.