VICE PRESIDENT OF POLYCULTURE

Summary

The Vice President of Polyculture will work closely with the Winemaker/President, and select members of her team, in creating, curating, and caring for all agricultural systems across a 188-acre property in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills. The property includes fifty acres of wine grapes, over eighty acres of native oaks and ample headlands for further regenerative agricultural programming. They will be responsible for the design, creation, and care for all integrative systems of vineyards, gardens, orchards, and animals.

The Vice President of Polyculture must have an expert-level understanding and deep practical background in successful regenerative viticulture as well as a solid background in biodynamics and in plants that are suited for the Northwestern United States. They must be familiar with proper planting techniques, pruning practices, integrated pest management, plant physiology and nutrition, irrigation, and advanced soil biology. They may conduct tours and teach classes in areas of specialized interest. They must be able to safely operate and provide basic maintenance on a variety of mechanical equipment including tractors, sprayers, flails, trucks, garden carts, mowers, power tools and all types of garden hand tools. They must be accustomed with proper PPE for all jobs. In addition, the Vice President of Polyculture, will be responsible the selection, acquisition, care, husbandry, and disposition of all animals.

Finally, the Vice President of Polyculture will work with our Vice President of Finance and the Winemaker/President to manage all financial aspects of the vineyard, garden and farm operations. The Vice President of Polyculture can manage a budget, understand the implications of changes in personnel, product or facility needs; can make adjustments when needed, and forecast when required.

To achieve the above, the Vice President of Polyculture must be a self-motivated individual who thrives in both independent and dynamic working environments. This person will be adept at developing productive working relationships with employees, guests, vendors, and other key partners in our business. They must be comfortable both managing and directing Spanish-speaking ranch hands and seasonal help and supporting the vision of our ownership.

Primary Responsibilities

• Create, curate, and care for all agricultural systems
• Deliver highest quality fruit to the winemaking team and select winery partners
• Manage the contracts and sale of all surplus fruit
• Supervise, direct, and coordinate the work of subordinate staff and/or temporary employees
• Oversee the acquisition, care, husbandry, and disposition of animals
• Participate in the construction and maintenance of various farm facilities
• Exercise good judgment in cases of emergencies
• Serve as an ambassador for the vineyards, gardens, grounds and its programs to the media, visitors, and staff.
• Analyze and synthesize information with attention to detail and accuracy
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other documents
• Communicate clearly and concisely
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all those contacted in the course of work

Skills, Knowledge, Qualifications and Experience

• Fluent in Spanish
• Fluency with operational characteristics, services and activities of biodynamic vineyards, permaculture farms, food forests and gardens
• Fluency with operations and services of integrative animal husbandry programs
• In depth understanding of the theories and applications of ecology and conservation
• Mastery of the principles of Permaculture and Regenerative Agriculture
• Mastery of the principles of Biodynamic Viticulture
• Mastery of the principles of animal physiology, behavior, and classification
• Commitment to and understanding of safe work procedures
• Principles of staff supervision and training
• Five years of relevant vineyard management experience
• Outstanding organizational ability
• Strong problem solving and creative skills and the ability to exercise sound judgment
• High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation
• Demonstrated passion for and knowledge of the principles of regenerative agriculture
• Exceptional ability to pay close attention to details and strong communication skills
• Motivated, independent, self-starter
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must be able to safely lift 40 lbs. and stand and walk for long periods of time

Levels of Effort

65% Viticulture

20% Animal husbandry and non-grapevine plant care

15% Strategic Planning

Working Conditions

Working conditions include farm work, processing facility, vineyard, cellar, and office environment.

DEI

The Company is committed to creating a diverse environment and we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. The Company is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.