Vineyard Manager – Job Description.
Vineyard Manager.
Crouch Valley, Essex, UK.
Employment type: Full-time, permanent.
Start date: November 2025 onwards.
Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience (expected range £40,000–£55,000+), with accommodation/vehicle options for the right candidate.
About Us:
We are an ambitious premium vineyard located in the renowned Crouch Valley. Our focus is on producing high-quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, with an emphasis on sustainable viticulture and long-term excellence in both vineyard management and wine quality. The Vineyard Manager will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard operations and will play a pivotal role in shaping the quality of our fruit and the future of our estate. This is a hands-on leadership position suited to someone with cool-climate viticulture experience and the ability to manage both people and resources effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute the vineyard management strategy (pruning, canopy management, disease and pest control, soil health).
- Manage day-to-day vineyard operations, seasonal labour, and contractors.
- Oversee and maintain vineyard equipment and machinery.
- Implement sustainable and regenerative practices in line with industry best standards.
- Monitor vine health, phenology, and crop load to guide harvest decisions.
- Liaise with the winemaker and ownership team to deliver grapes of the highest quality.
- Work with the Team to complete the construction of our Winery and Cellar Door facilities.
- Maintain compliance with UK regulations, including spray diaries and certifications.
- Prepare and manage budgets, vineyard development plans, and reporting.
Candidate Profile:
- Proven vineyard management experience (Cool-climate international regions such as Burgundy, Oregon, Tasmania, New Zealand).
- Formal viticulture qualification preferred.
- Strong technical knowledge of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay cultivation.
- Leadership and people management skills with a collaborative mindset.
- Competence with vineyard machinery and technology.
- Passion for quality, sustainability, and innovation in viticulture.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary (£40,000–£55,000+, dependent on experience).
- Accommodation and/or vehicle package negotiable.
- Opportunity to work with a forward-looking vineyard in one of the UK’s most exciting wine regions.
- Professional development and networking within the growing UK wine industry.
- The chance to make a lasting impact on a high-potential estate.
How to Apply:
Please send your CV and cover letter (detailing relevant experience and motivation)