How to Succeed in Wine Operations With Reed Woogerd of Valdemar Estates

Reed Woogerd, the Director of Operations at Valdemar Estates, is a seasoned leader with a history of success in Ohio's hospitality scene. After venturing into markets like the Bay Area and Austin, Reed now oversees multi-site operations for Valdemar Estates in Walla Walla, WA.

His journey began during a working holiday visa in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, where he discovered his passion for wine. Despite a challenging start pruning vines, Reed's career took off when he managed a popular ale house. Back in the U.S., he excelled in nightclub management and later managed a restaurant company marked by accolades and high-profile ventures. Now at Valdemar Estates, Reed's passion for wine and extensive hospitality expertise ensure continued success.

 

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• Reed's rich background, personal journey, and advice for aspiring young professionals

• Exploring the unique challenges and opportunities in running operations for a family-owned winery with a rich history

• Navigating cross-functional teams within a winery and strategies for fostering cohesiveness and camaraderie

• Tips for identifying the right individuals for winery operations

• Valdemar Estates' notable commitment to accessibility and hospitality

• The winery's diverse wine offerings and restaurant, showcasing the marriage of food and wine

• Reed details his role overseeing operations in the U.S, managing disparate locations, including Woodinville

• Insights into maintaining a healthy work-life balance while overseeing the multifaceted operations of a winery

• Tips on addressing conflicts within teams, ensuring a cohesive and productive work environment

 

In this episode with Reed Woogerd

Dive into the world of wine operations with Reed Woogerd of Valdemar Estates in Walla Walla. Reed shares the unique challenges and joys of his journey, from running a New Zealand ale house to overseeing a prestigious winery. Explore topics like team cohesion, talent acquisition, and Valdemar's commitment to accessibility.

In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks and Bianca Harmon are joined by Reed Woogerd, Director of Operations at Valdemar Estates. Discover the intricacies of managing operations in Woodinville and maintaining synchrony in a geographically diverse organization. Reed also offers insights into work-life balance, conflict resolution, and valuable advice for aspiring wine industry professionals. Join us for a vintage conversation on the ins and outs of wine operations!

 

Sponsor for this episode…

This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.

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