Job Facts
Job Status: Open
Job Title: CEO – Luxury Wine Company
Location: Napa, CA
Relocation: Relocation package possible
Industry: Luxury / Fine Wine
Market: Global
Channel: DTC and Wholesale
Reporting to: Chairman of the board
Direct Reports: none
Visa: No sponsorship possible. Must have valid work authorization
Job ID: ZR_9489_JOB
Tags
Remote work policy: On-site, Hybrid (local: 2-3 days/wk)
Job Seniority: Executive Level
Company size: Small (1-50 ppl)
Company Ownership: Private Equity backed
Industry(ies): Wine, Wines Spirits Beer,
Function(s): General Management (of company or division),
Region(s): NORTH AMERICA, USA, Napa-Sonoma Area, California
Job Description
Company Description
Our client is a distinguished luxury winery located in Napa, CA. Known for its estate-grown, small-production wines, the company has earned global recognition for quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability. With a rich legacy and strong brand equity, the winery remains focused on producing world-class wines that reflect the best of Napa’s terroir.
Objective of the Role
The CEO will lead the next phase of growth for this iconic estate, balancing tradition with innovation. This role requires strategic vision, commercial leadership, and operational excellence to elevate brand positioning, drive profitability, and strengthen the company’s global presence. The CEO will report to the Board and oversee all aspects of the business.
Ideal Profile
The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive with deep luxury wine expertise and a passion for brand building. They bring strong leadership, business acumen, and a track record of delivering results in high-end wine or luxury goods.
- 10–15+ years in wine or luxury brand leadership.
- Expertise in DTC, global distribution, and premium brand marketing.
- Experience leading teams and scaling operations.
- Strategic, entrepreneurial mindset with strong financial discipline.
Responsibilities
- Lead strategic planning and execution across all functions.
- Oversee brand development, marketing, and global sales channels.
- Ensure operational excellence in vineyard, winemaking, and hospitality.
- Drive growth in DTC and digital channels.
- Manage financial planning, P&L, and reporting.
- Build and lead a high-performing, values-driven team.
- Represent the brand publicly and engage key stakeholders.
- Maintain strong governance and legal compliance.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required; MBA preferred.
- Proven success leading a luxury wine or lifestyle brand.
- Strong understanding of sales, marketing, finance, and operations.
- Experience with both legacy and growth-stage business environments.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and Board-level engagement skills.
- Willingness to be Napa-based with travel as needed.