Director of Wine Education

About the Role Our client, a highly respected wine institution in the picturesque surroundings of Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and passionate Director of Wine Education. This senior role is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all wine education programs and initiatives. The Director will lead curriculum design, manage educators, and ensure the delivery of high-quality wine learning experiences for a diverse audience, including consumers, trade professionals, and aspiring sommeliers.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of wine education in a region globally recognized for its viticultural excellence. We are committed to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of wine through engaging and comprehensive educational offerings. The vibrant community of Paarl provides an ideal backdrop for this role.

• Develop and refine wine education curriculum, ensuring content is accurate, engaging, and relevant to current industry standards.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of qualified wine educators.
• Oversee the scheduling and delivery of all wine education programs, workshops, and masterclasses.
• Develop and maintain relationships with industry partners, wineries, and educational bodies.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs and implement improvements based on feedback and performance metrics.
• Represent the institution at industry events and conferences, promoting its educational offerings.
• Manage the budget for the wine education department, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Contribute to the development of new educational initiatives and online learning platforms.
• Ensure all educational content aligns with the institution's mission and quality standards.

• An advanced wine certification such as Master Sommelier, WSET Diploma, or equivalent is essential.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in wine education, curriculum development, or a related field within the wine industry.
• Proven experience in managing and mentoring educators and educational programs.
• Deep and comprehensive knowledge of global viticulture, winemaking, and wine appreciation.
• Exceptional presentation, public speaking, and communication skills.
• Strong leadership, strategic planning, and organizational abilities.
• Experience in budget management and program administration.
• Ability to travel occasionally for industry events and research.
• A genuine passion for sharing knowledge and fostering a love for wine.

This pivotal position offers a competitive salary, attractive benefits package, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on wine education within the renowned Paarl region. Our client provides a supportive and collaborative work environment, with access to exceptional wine resources and opportunities for continued professional growth. This hybrid role offers a balance between dedicated remote work and essential on-site collaboration and instruction in Western Cape .