Technical Managers

• Since 2024 there has been an increase in demand for Technical Managers. Generally an SME will have 1 technical manager although there are some exceptions particularly if own label/bulk is a large part of the company’s business. As there are so few wine technical managers in the UK trade and turnover of roles is low, in searches if considering candidates only in wine the same names will be found again and again on shortlists.  Companies have been turning to UK supermarket technical teams to consider candidates from food (who may or may not have wine experience). 

• In 2024 salaries increased significantly at mid-level (+10-20%) for technical managers as this is where hiring demand has been concentrated. Bonuses are an important part of the package and bonus percentages have increased. If hiring from UK supermarkets to move into the wine sector then expect to pay a salary premium.

• WSET Diploma and MW company-funded studies are almost always added to the overall package for Technical Managers if requested.

Sustainability Managers

• Sustainability roles have started to appear over the last couple of years although there are still very few. At present these are generally found in larger companies particularly if there is B Corp certification or a desire to gain this accreditation. These roles are interesting new opportunities for existing technical managers at junior to mid-level.

• Salaries for Sustainability roles are similar to mid-level technical manager salaries.  As these roles are new we don’t have enough salary examples to breakout specific ranges however using technical manager salaries as a guide will currently be accurate.

• Routes into sustainability roles can be via technical manager experience (common at mid-level).  At junior/entry levels there are specific degree programs particularly at MSc level and graduate programs at consultancies focused on sustainability. Candidates with degree level expertise will bring specific knowledge and understanding of the specific frameworks into the wine sector.

• If not split out in a stand-alone role then the sustainability ethos will be part of the whole operations/production/buying team’s responsibilities.   One person might have specific coordinator focus.