Winery Experience Manager

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Manager of Winery Experience is responsible for planning, implementing, and leading the operations and programs, and will ensure that the guest experience is aligned with Biltmore's commitment to gracious hospitality and world class service.  Responsibilities will include: strategic planning, budgeting, and leading marketing/promotional efforts for Estate Winery sales and operations; analysis of sales data and industry trends; business development and program and product marketing; performance management, coaching, and staff development; achievement of departmental and company revenue goals; and operational enhancements that enrich the guest and employee experience and contribute to profitability.  Other duties will include budgeting and fiscal administration and project management.  In addition, the Manager will provide general assistance and support for senior leadership and the company as required.

This is a salaried, full-time position that will work on-site in Asheville, NC.

The salary range for this position starts at $58,900 and is based on the level of qualifications and experience above the minimum requirements for the role.

Schedule can vary but is generally 9:00am - 5:30pm; weekends are required.

Essential Job Duties:

1. Responsible for working with the Director, Estate Retail Products to plan and execute on department/company goals related to Winery Tour, Tasting Room, Wine Shop, Wine Bar, and Winery Gift Shop.
2. Oversees Winery Tour, Retail and Tasting Room operations including guest experience, product presentation, and programming development.
3. Performance management, coaching, and development for leadership and staff. 
4. Recommends and executes on capital projects/investments.
5. Identifies growth and other business opportunities in the Winery revenue stream, develops action plans; coordinates Marketing/promotional efforts as needed.
6. Liaises with other departments in support of departmental and/or company goals, projects, and/or initiatives.
7. Leads annual strategic planning and budgeting process for the department.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Advocate and promote teamwork between Retail Wine Operations, Merchandising, Marketing, and other organizational partners and stakeholders.
2. Working with the Director, Estate Retail Operations to develop long-range growth plans.
3. Working with Retail Operations management staff, plan and implement ongoing sales promotions.
4. Travels to off-site events, locations as needed.
5. Serves on internal work teams, committees, and groups; attends external functions and events on behalf of Biltmore as required.
6. General support for department, leadership and company.

Qualifications:

1. High school diploma. Additional education, training, and/or certification(s) preferred. Ideal candidate will have a two or four-year degree.

2. At least ten (10) years of related experience in management and/or operations. Equivalent combination of education/experience considered. Preferred candidate will have a background in an upscale setting, ideally at a luxury attraction/resort.

3. Demonstrated commitment to delivery of world class internal/external guest service.

4. Proven leadership skills and track record of building/motivating/developing teams. Experience managing a operational team of managers/teams.

5. Strong analytical and marketing skills; ability to anticipate trends, identify opportunities; solid knowledge of operational best practices.

6. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills; effective at all levels in the organization; public speaking skills a plus; builds positive working relationships.

7. Advanced proficiency in Excel, Word; basic knowledge of PowerPoint; can quickly learn Biltmore brand identity, product lines, systems, and protocols.

8. Excellent planning, organizational, project and time management skills; prioritizes work and adapts; keen attention to details with focus on quality and service.

9. Proactive, exercises good judgment; creatively problem solves; anticipates. 10. Professional, reflects Biltmore core values at all times; high ethical standards.

Physical Requirements:

1. Must be able to travel; valid driver's license required.

2. Primarily working in an active office setting, though will also be traveling to Biltmore's Retail shops and other estate locations.

3. Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds occasionally.

4. Ability to walk/stand; occasionally climb stairs/ladders.