WineTalent Classifieds: SALES: Bottling Equipment Product Manager

WineTalent Classifieds:  Now Hiring a Bottling Equipment Product Manager for ColloPack Solutions in Napa, CA.

WineTalent is working with our client ColloPack Solutions on a Product Manager search.  ColloPack is a leading distributor of equipment to the US wine and beverage industry.  The Product Manager position is responsible for the sales and marketing of the bottling equipment product line.  The Product Manager is responsible for the entire sales cycle.  This includes initial customer contact, developing an understanding of potential needs, demonstrating equipment capabilities in person, following-up on potential orders, generating sales orders, negotiating contracts, scheduling delivery and installation, and ongoing support.  The Product Manager will be working with ColloPack’s technical sales team to promote the company’s offerings throughout the domestic wine and beverage industries. 

Responsibilities:

• Executing the marketing and sales of the bottling equipment product line.
• Building and maintaining long-term business relationships with customers throughout the US. 
• Effectively communicating the capabilities and applications for the product line.
• Collaborating with the equipment suppliers to manage logistics, scheduling and maintenance requirements.
• Professionally representing ColloPack throughout the US at industry events, tradeshows, and in-person meetings. 
• Identifying opportunities for additional sales opportunities with existing customers of all ColloPack equipment offerings.
• Preparation and presentation of customized plans, budgets and schedules for each customer.
• Prioritizing duties effectively and managing sales cycle to maximize efficiency.
• Following up with customers on a timely basis.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Process, Electrical or related Engineering discipline desired.  Bachelor’s degree in Enology and Viticulture, Food Science, Chemistry, Business, Marketing or related disciplines required.
• A keen understanding of beverage bottling systems, mechanical equipment and production environments is essential in this role.
• Good presentation and listening skills.
• Technical sales experience highly desirable but not required.
• Strong organization skills required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively facilitate internal and external business relationships.
• Hard-working, trustworthy and positive demeanor.

WineTalent Classifieds: Recruiter for Long Meadow Ranch

WineTalent Classifieds:  Internal Recruiter Role with Long Meadow Ranch

WineTalent is seeking an internal recruiter for Long Meadow Ranch to support the staffing needs of the winery, the restaurant and the farming operations.  

Recruiter

Long Meadow Ranch is a family ­owned and operated producer and purveyor of world ­class wine and food that is economically successful and socially responsible using diversified, sustainable, and organic farming methods. LMR produces award ­winning wines, handcrafted extra virgin olive oils, grass ­fed beef, eggs, and heirloom fruits and vegetables.

Long Meadow Ranch has a unique opportunity for a Recruiter to join the administrative team to continue to build, support and manage a growing staff of winery, restaurant, hospitality, farming and administrative professionals.   Reporting to the Manager of Administration, the Recruiter will perform a wide variety of human resources activities including recruitment, onboarding, training, career development and staffing support.

Responsibilities:

External Recruitment:

• Build recruiting network through the use of internet job posting sites and social media.
• Forge strong industry connections through involvement in professional organizations, trade groups, colleges and universities.
• Create internal platform to market open positions to encourage staff referrals.
• Implement and manage LMR’s college recruiting program.  This will include identifying appropriate colleges, creating a relationship with faculty and career centers, attending career fairs and developing an internship program.  
• Develop the recruiting and interviewing plan for every open position.  This will include identifying the best recruitment tools and job boards to utilize.  
• Monitor recruiting metrics to identify areas needing improvement and effectiveness of recruiting efforts.

Internal Staffing Support:

• Manage the entire recruitment process for identified positions.

• Develop and maintain excellent relationships with LMR’s hiring managers, candidates and team members.
• Interact closely with external recruiters.
• Create interview guides for internal staff and applicable interview questionnaires.     
• Market open positions and LMR’s mission and values to candidates.
• Screen resumes and submit most qualified candidates’ resumes to hiring manager.
• Schedule all phone screens and in-person interviews for hiring manager.
• Follow-up with candidates as needed throughout the process, keeping candidates informed and engaged.  
• Conduct post-interview debriefing with hiring manager and determine next steps in hiring process.
• Arrange travel and lodging accommodations for interviews with out of area applicants. Handle all reimbursement requests and maintain timely payments to applicants when necessary.  
• Ensure proper documentation is in place before an offer is made (Employment application, references, pre-employment screenings).  
• Prepare offer letters.

Additional Administrative Support:

• Manage LMR’s applicant tracking system.  This will include identifying potential solutions for LMR and be the point of contact for system implementation.  
• Prepare internal recruitment reports for direct supervisor and departments as requested.  

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Marketing or related.  Relevant work experience in lieu of a degree is also applicable.

• At least 5 years of experience in human resources and personnel administration.
• Keen ability to build rapport with personnel throughout the organization and maintain relationships to facilitate strong lines of communication.
• Understanding of current employment laws.
• Familiarity and comfort on Mac, online productivity and collaboration tools including Google Drive, Google Docs, cloud based storage systems and related systems.  
• Sharp attention to detail with good oral and written communication skills.  
• Spanish language skills highly desirable.
• Able to work in a team environment as well as operate independently.    

• Experience with recruitment databases and applicant tracking systems
• Strong organizational, problem-solving and priority management.  

Compensation and Benefits

• This is a full-time, salaried position.
• Competitive compensation depending on experience plus benefits including medical/dental insurance, paid vacation and 401(k).

Change Afoot: New Federal Overtime Rules Taking Effect in December

With all of the new employment laws coming along, it is good to stay on top of changes that are happening.  One of the big changes coming at the Federal level is regarding overtime pay.  Last week the Department of Labor announced final regulations on overtime pay.  This regulation will go into effect December 1, 2016.  As an employer, all exempt positions that are paying less than $913 per week should be reviewed and possibly reclassified as hourly positions.  With hourly positions employers need to be aware of requirements for unpaid meal and rest breaks and tracking of hours.

For more complete information about this, please refer to this update prepared by Attorney Barbara Cotter of Cook Brown LLP, an employment law firm here in Sacramento.

WineTalent Classifieds: Estate Host

WineTalent Classifieds:  Estate Host for Long Meadow Ranch Winery

WineTalent is working with our client Long Meadow Ranch to find an Estate Host to create a memorable guest experience.

Position:  Estate Host

Description:  Long Meadow Ranch is a family­-owned and operated producer and purveyor of world­class wine and food that is economically successful and socially responsible using diversified, sustainable, and organic farming methods. We produce award­winning wines, handcrafted extra virgin olive oils, grass­fed beef, eggs, and heirloom fruits and vegetables.

We are seeking an Estate Host to guide our guests on a full range of hospitality experiences at our properties.  The Estate Host will be primarily responsible for providing an unforgettable experience to our guests and promoting our wines, our wine club and our Long Meadow Ranch General Store offerings.  The ideal candidate will be engaging and knowledgeable about Long Meadow Ranch, wine, food, and also the Napa Valley.  Interacting with guests from diverse backgrounds and experiences, the Estate Host will strive to create a unique and personal experience with each guest. 

Responsibilities:

·      Host guests on guided tours and tastings that are unique and memorable.

·      Present and sell Long Meadow Ranch Winery’s wines, products and club memberships.

·      Engage and educate guests with effective story telling about Long Meadow Ranch’s history, philosophy and mission.

·      Schedule and facilitate various experiences to capture the guests’ attention and exceed their expectations while providing them the encounter they were hoping for. 

·      Create opportunities to promote all Long Meadow Ranch and Farmstead products and services.

·      Provide an experience to guests that they will want to share with others.

·      Perform daily operations including set-up and break-down of tastings and tours, washing and buffing glassware, order processing and other tasks as needed. 

·       Be a team player and an ambassador for Long Meadow Ranch.

Qualifications and Requirements

·      Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Hospitality or related work experience.

·      1+ years of hospitality experience with strong knowledge of wine and food. 

·      Knowledge of organic and sustainable farming and food production.

·      Strong interest in the farm-to-table movement and culinary pursuits.

·      Customer service experience with a genuine desire to provide exceptional service.

·      Proven experience in direct-to-consumer wine sales.

·      Effective communication and sales skills.

·      Flexible schedule and ability to work weekends.

·      This position will have the Estate Host driving guests to the various properties.  A clean driving record is required.  The ability to drive a manual transmission is a plus.

·      The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Compensation and Benefits

·      Competitive compensation depending on experience plus benefits including medical/dental insurance, paid vacation and 401(k).

Interested in Applying?  Please email your resume to amy@winetalent.net.  

WineTalent Classifieds: Tasting Room Associates

Help Wanted:  Tasting Room Associates for Long Meadow Ranch


WineTalent is working with our client Long Meadow Ranch to find tasting room staff for the General Store tasting room located at Farmstead Restaurant in St. Helena.  

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is the destination for food & wine in St. Helena. Farmstead has has a unique opportunity for a proven sales professional to join the General Store team. We are looking for an energetic and enthusiatic person to promote the sales of wine and non-wine merchandise, provide exceptional customer service, create a unique experience for each guest and build LMR brand loyalty.

If you are a results oriented sales person that thrives on achieving goals and provides world-class customer service, we would like to hear from you. Results, integrity and teamwork are important for success in this position.


Duties Include:

Provide the first line of information to the customer by greeting, directing and answering questions regarding our wines, merchandise, history and facilities.
Host retail wine tastings that convey LMR brand image and lead to sales transactions and brand loyalty.
Provide wine service for our Farm-to-Table lunches and dinners, small and large groups.
Handle retail sales of specialty merchandise, food items, olive oil and wine.
Offer wine club program and encourage sign-ups in a captivating manner as to increase sales and build customer loyalty.
Complete transactions accurately on point of sales system, including shipping orders, wine club and cash transactions.
Build, enhance and maintain long-term customer relationships.
Stock, price and display merchandise.

Qualifications Include:

Two years of sales experience in a tasting room, restaurant or retail sales environment
Ability to effectively communicate in a welcoming and professional manner.
Ability to build/maintain a relationship with customers in a short period of time
Ability to offer product for purchase and maximize sale with other options for purchase.
Ability to learn and execute point of sale computer software procedures.
Ability to learn about wines, varietals and winemaking process.
Ability to work independently and with a team.
Ability to work in fast paced environment.
Ability to lift up to 50lbs and stand for long periods of time.
Ability to work weekends and holidays, flexibility in schedule is desired.
Hourly wage plus commission and wine club incentive

INTERESTED IN APPLYING?  EMAIL RESUMES TO amy@winetalent.net.  

WineTalent Classifieds: Director of Finance

 WineTalent Classifieds:  Director of Finance

Description:  WineTalent is working with our Client Long Meadow Ranch on a Director of Finance role.  Long Meadow Ranch (LMR) is a family-­owned and -operated producer and purveyor of world­-class wine and food that is economically successful and socially responsible and that employs diversified, sustainable, and organic farming methods. LMR produces award­-winning wines, hand-crafted extra virgin olive oils, grass-­fed beef and lamb, eggs, and heirloom fruits and vegetables.

LMR has farming operations in Northern California on more than 2500 acres in Napa, Marin, Mendocino, and Humboldt counties, including three winegrowing estates in the Mayacamas Mountains, Rutherford, and Anderson Valley.  Long Meadow Ranch also operates a sustainable food, wine, and agricultural education destination located in St. Helena, CA, which is anchored by the distinctive farm-to-table restaurant, Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch. New projects  are being developed on multiple LMR-owned properties, including winery production facilities, agricultural improvements (major vineyard re-plantings, water systems, livestock handling facilities, etc.), and guest lodging

LMR has an exciting opportunity for a Director of Finance to contribute to the overall success of LMR by effectively managing the financial affairs of one of its key entities, LMR Wine Estates LLC.   The Director of Finance will be a member of  the executive team. The Director of Finance will be responsible for all financial reporting for LMR Wine Estates and will also be accountable for analyzing the current business and planning for future business needs..  The Director of Finance will provide high quality financial planning and analysis, including providing detailed financial modeling for established and potential projects.  

The Director of Finance will lead the development and maintenance of control and management information reporting systems. This position requires excellent verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal relationship skills and a commitment to integrity.   

Responsibilities:

Financial accounting and reporting

•   Develop and maintain timely and accurate financial statements and reports that are appropriate for the users and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)

•   Develop, implement, and ensure compliance with internal financial and accounting policies and procedures

•   Document and maintain complete and accurate supporting information for all financial transactions

•   Develop and maintain financial accounting systems for cash management, accounts payable, accounts receivable, credit control, and petty cash

•   Review monthly results and implement monthly variance reporting

•   Prepare and maintain monthly, quarterly and annual cash flow forecasts

•   Oversee the accounting manager including maintenance of the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll

Payroll preparation and administration

•   Oversee all payroll functions to ensure that employees are paid in a timely and accurate manner

Budget preparation

•   Establish guidelines for budget and forecast preparation and prepare the annual budget

•   Assist the executive team with the preparation of budgets

•   Drive development and maintenance of a three-year forward-looking financial plan.

Cash flow

•   Develop and maintain 24-month rolling forecasts of cash flow

•   Manage line of credit and tactical relationship with banks

Project management accounting

•   Maintain financial records for each project in a manner that facilitates timely management reporting

•   Ensure that accurate and timely financial statements are prepared in accordance with agreements with lenders and investors

•   Provide accurate and timely reporting on the status of individual projects

 Financial Administration

•   Oversee the management of all leases, contracts and other financial commitments

•   Monitor all legislation relevant to the organization (employment policies,, occupation health and safety, etc)

Qualifications and Requirements:

•   Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or Business

•   Certified Public Accountants preferred

•   Distinctive finance and accounting experience of 5 years or more within diversified agricultural organizations

•   Proven understanding of finance and accounting issues related to agricultural production (cash basis), winery and restaurant businesses highly desirable

•   Extensive experience with Quickbooks required  

•   Experience using Targit Decision Suite sales analytics software highly desirable  

•   Prior experience implementing new accounting software systems and/or ERP required

Compensation and Benefits

•   Competitive compensation depending on experience plus benefits including medical/dental insurance, paid vacation and 401(k).