Distillery Manager

About the role

The Distillery Manager will lead Van Ryn Distillery in Stellenbosch, reporting to the Plant Manager. This senior position is responsible for strategic direction, operational excellence, and overall performance of the site.

Key responsibilities

• Set strategic goals for the distillery aligned with divisional KPIs.
• Lead and develop a motivated workforce.
• Manage assets, financial resources and the site budget.
• Oversee all CAPEX projects and ensure compliance with Heineken global standards.
• Interface with internal and external stakeholders, including supply‑chain divisions, suppliers and customers.
• Ensure safety, health, risk control and environmental compliance.
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation and best‑practice implementation.
• Maintain product quality, raw‑material intake, maturation, blending, bottling and cooperage operations.
• Participate in the sensory evaluation panel and govern loss‑control processes.
• Custodian of the Quality Management System and accountable for the excise account.

Required profile

• National Diploma or B‑Degree in Sciences (or equivalent).
• 8‑10 years experience in alcoholic‑beverage production in a leadership role, or 10+ years as a Spirits Cellar/Distillery Manager.
• Alternatively, a B‑Degree with 5 years senior‑level FMCG experience.
• Strong people‑management, communication and presentation abilities.
• Commercial and financial acumen with the ability to work under pressure.
• Analytical, strategic thinking and problem‑solving skills.

Required skills

• SAP
• Excise knowledge
• World Class Manufacturing (WCM) practices
• Quality Management Systems

What we offer

• Leadership role in a renowned distillery.
• Opportunity to shape strategic direction and drive innovation.
• Competitive remuneration package.