We are seeking a dynamic, results-oriented General Manager to lead day-to-day operations across four boutique winery brands—Corliss, Tranche, Secret Squirrel, and San Juan Vineyard—totaling 16,000 cases annually. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, leads by example, and is deeply engaged in driving sales, managing expenses, and building a high-performing team. A strong financial mindset, initiative, and brand stewardship are essential.
The General Manager will oversee 5 direct reports and take full ownership of daily decision-making. This role demands clear focus on revenue growth, cost control, and operational excellence.
Sales & Marketing
• Define marketing strategy across DTC, wine club, wholesale, and distribution.
• Oversee sales analysis to guide pricing, promotions, and channel strategy.
• Lead tasting room performance—set goals, monitor staffing, and ensure brand alignment.
• Direct wine club and digital growth strategies in partnership with brand and hospitality teams.
• Set priorities and pricing for wholesale and distribution; collaborate with national sales on execution.
Hospitality & Brand Experience
• Approve winery event budgets to align with brand and financial goals.
• Oversee guest experience across all brands.
• Represent the winery at distributor events, trade tastings, and media functions.
• Lead improvements in POS, CRM, and inventory tools.
• Collaborate on data reporting and CRM utilization for sales insights.
Inventory & Compliance
• Manage inventory across all SKUs and vintages.
• Align marketing plans with inventory realities and adjust allocations accordingly.
• Maintain rolling inventory outlook to identify gaps or surpluses.
• Ensure timely, compliant submission of wine labels and COLAs.
Financial Management
• Own financial performance with focus on P&L, cash flow, and profitability.
• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Manage cost controls and partner with accounting on reporting accuracy.
• Track KPIs to align with financial goals.
• Approve payroll and oversee admin operations.
• Create business plans and long-term strategies.
• Optimize staffing ratios and implement cost-saving initiatives.
General Oversight
• Make decisions on tools, systems, and vendor relationships.
• Drive operational efficiency through process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with licensing, reporting, and safety standards.
• Oversee capital improvements in production and hospitality facilities.
Team Leadership
• Lead and develop 4–5 department heads.
• Oversee hiring, onboarding, and evaluations.
• Set and enforce KPIs, role expectations, and performance metrics.
• Build a culture of accountability, agility, and results across teams.
Leadership Scope
This is a senior leadership role with full accountability for winery operations and financial performance. The GM serves as both the strategic and operational lead across departments, including full P&L oversight. Hands-on leadership is essential—actively engaging in execution, problem-solving, and supporting the team in real time. In a lean organization, success requires direct involvement, initiative, and financial discipline.
Qualifications
• 7+ years of winery management or wine industry leadership experience.
• Small-to-medium production winery experience preferred.
• Proficiency with systems like eCellar, InnoVint, or QuickBooks a plus.
• Strong background in sales strategy, team leadership, and P&L management.
• Familiarity with DTC, wholesale, digital marketing, and hospitality.
• Proven ability to lead operations independently and meet financial targets.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, or related field; MBA or wine certifications a plus.
• Must reside in or relocate to Walla Walla Valley.
Benefits
• Performance-based annual bonus
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• PTO and holiday benefits
• Wine allocation and discounts
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