Case Study
Search Details
Our Client
Company Description
Our client for this VP of Operations / General Manager search was a prestigious winery estate located in the Asheville, NC area. Known for its historic significance, breathtaking scenery, and exceptional wines, the estate draws visitors from around the world. With a commitment to sustainable practices and artisanal winemaking, the estate sought a dynamic leader to oversee its operations and uphold its reputation for excellence.
Search Overview
The estate recognized the need for a seasoned VP of Operations / General Manager to lead all aspects of its winemaking, distribution, and hospitality operations. This executive would oversee the estate’s vineyards, production facilities, and visitor experiences while ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. The role also required driving strategic initiatives, improving operational processes, and maintaining the estate’s position as a destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers.
ACCUR Recruiting Services was retained to identify candidates with a proven ability to manage high-profile wineries, combining operational excellence with a deep passion for winemaking and guest experiences.
Search Challenges
The key challenges of this search included:
- Identifying candidates with expertise in winemaking, hospitality, and high-volume operations management.
- Ensuring the candidates had experience in managing premium brands and aligning with the estate’s historic and cultural values.
- Attracting talent willing to relocate to Asheville, NC, while appreciating the unique prestige and complexity of the estate’s operations.
- Balancing the operational needs of a working winery with the high standards of guest experience expected at a luxury estate.
Our Executive Search Strategy
- Extensive leadership experience in winemaking and hospitality operations.
- Proven success in managing high-profile, multi-faceted estates or wineries.
- Strong skills in operational efficiency, sustainability practices, and customer experience management.
- A passion for wine and deep knowledge of vineyard-to-bottle production processes.
Our Executive Search Process
- Kick-off Call: ACCUR conducted an in-depth consultation with the estate owner and board member to outline the objectives of the role and define the ideal candidate profile.
- Target List Creation: A targeted list of executives from top-tier wineries, estate properties, and premium hospitality brands was compiled.
- Candidate Outreach: ACCUR reached out to industry leaders with a track record of operational excellence and a deep appreciation for winemaking.
- Regular Updates: Weekly progress calls with the estate owner allowed for adjustments to the search strategy and review of potential candidates.
Final Outcome
- Long-list: 125 relevant executives were identified.
- Initial Screenings: 8 candidates were interviewed by ACCUR’s Managing Partner and Consultants
- Short-list: 5 candidates were submitted to the client.
- Client Interviews: 5 candidates were interviewed by the estate owner and board member.
- Hired Candidate: The selected VP of Operations / General Manager had 20+ years of experience in winery operations.
Contact A Recruiter
Fine Wine Industry Testimonials
-
Testimonial
“Great experience being recruited by ACCUR Recruiting Services’ team 3 years ago (2016) for an exciting position. Top level performance from them.”
Fine Wine Industry Insights
-
The Executive Team Behind Pantalones Organic Tequila by Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila
The experienced team behind Pantalones Tequila with background from Diageo, Patron Spirits, Anheuser Bush InBev and others
Read More…
-
Innovative Branding in the Spirits Industry: The Launch of Pantalones Organic Tequila by Matthew and Camila McConaughey
The launch of Pantalones Organic Tequila by Matthew and Camila McConaughey marks a pivotal moment in the wine and spirits industry, showcasing the transformative power of innovative branding.
Read More…
-
Michael Bublé’s Whiskey Venture: Fraser & Thompson’s Strategic Entry into the Spirits Market
Grammy-winning artist Michael Bublé has ventured into the spirits industry with the launch of Fraser & Thompson, a unique whiskey brand
Read More…