About Company
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Maluti Mountains, Clarens Brewery is South Africa’s original and arguably most iconic craft brewery. Established in 2006, we are pioneers in the craft beer movement, renowned for our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable brewing practices. Our passion extends beyond beer to include exceptional ciders and spirits, all handcrafted with the finest ingredients and a deep respect for tradition. We are more than just a brewery; we are a destination, a community hub, and a team dedicated to creating memorable experiences and products that reflect the beauty and spirit of the Free State. Joining Clarens Brewery means becoming part of a legacy of excellence and a vibrant, passionate culture that values craftsmanship, community, and the continuous pursuit of brewing perfection.
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Job Description
Clarens Brewery is seeking an experienced and passionate Brewery Master to lead our production team and uphold our esteemed reputation for crafting outstanding beverages. This pivotal role requires a seasoned brewing professional who possesses a deep understanding of the entire brewing process, from raw materials sourcing to final product packaging and quality assurance. The Brewery Master will be responsible for overseeing all brewing operations, ensuring the consistent quality of our diverse range of beers, ciders, and spirits, and driving innovation in our product development pipeline. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a beloved craft brand, working in a stunning natural environment with a dedicated and enthusiastic team. You will be instrumental in maintaining our high standards, optimizing efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and creativity within the brewery. This role balances hands-on brewing with strategic planning, team leadership, and a focus on both the art and science of brewing, making it ideal for a visionary who is ready to make a significant impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and manage all aspects of brewing operations, including mashing, lautering, boiling, fermentation, conditioning, filtration, and packaging processes.
- Develop, refine, and implement new recipes for beers, ciders, and spirits, ensuring alignment with brand vision, market trends, and consumer preferences.
- Maintain and enforce rigorous quality control standards across all stages of production, from raw materials receipt to finished goods analysis and release.
- Manage inventory of raw materials, brewing ingredients, packaging materials, and finished products, optimizing stock levels and minimizing waste.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the brewing team, fostering a collaborative, safe, and high-performance work environment.
- Oversee the preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimal operation of all brewery equipment and machinery, including brewhouse, cellar, and packaging lines.
- Implement and monitor production schedules to meet demand while optimizing efficiency, resource utilization, and cost-effectiveness.
- Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations, maintaining a safe working environment.
- Collaborate closely with sales, marketing, and management teams on new product launches, brand initiatives, and brewery events.
- Manage the brewing department's budget, implementing cost control measures and reporting on key performance indicators.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in a commercial brewing environment, with at least 3 years in a leadership or Brewery Master role.
- Comprehensive knowledge of brewing science, yeast management, fermentation kinetics, sensory evaluation techniques, and quality assurance protocols.
- Proven ability to develop and scale recipes successfully from concept to commercial production.
- Strong leadership, team management, and exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities, a proactive approach to operational challenges, and strong decision-making capabilities.
- Proficiency in brewery equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting across various scales.
- In-depth understanding of quality control protocols, HACCP principles, and food safety regulations.
- Ability to work hands-on in a physical environment, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods, as well as operating heavy machinery.
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree in Fermentation Science, Brewing & Distilling, Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Internationally recognized brewing certifications (e.g., IBD Diploma, Siebel Institute Diploma).
- Experience with spirit distillation and spirit-based product development is a significant advantage.
- Familiarity with brewing software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for production management.
- Demonstrated portfolio of successful new product development and market launches.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary package and performance-based incentives.
- Generous staff discount on all Clarens Brewery products and merchandise.
- Opportunity to work and live in a stunning natural setting in the Free State, offering a high quality of life.
- A dynamic, collaborative, and passionate team culture that fosters innovation.
- Extensive professional development and growth opportunities within a leading craft brand.
- The chance to contribute significantly to an iconic and beloved South African craft brand's legacy.
- Hybrid work model offering flexibility where appropriate for administrative and strategic planning tasks.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit a comprehensive CV and a compelling cover letter detailing their relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and passion for craft brewing. Please include specific examples of your achievements in brewing, including any notable product developments or operational improvements. Encourage applicants to click on the link below to apply for the job.
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