Michael Barton

After 2 years of brewing, I came back to Whitehaven, where I had previously worked for 3 years in the past. It was a warm welcome back to supervise this past harvest.

• Oversaw daily operations of the department, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
• Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
• Monitored workflow to improve employee time management and increase productivity.
• Ensured accurate record-keeping with diligent data entry and database management for vital company information.
• Improved document organization with thorough file maintenance, archiving outdated records as necessary for efficient retrieval when needed.
• Restocked supplies and placed purchase orders to maintain adequate stock levels.
• Assisted with fruit processing at harvest time, ensuring high-quality juice for wine production.
• Contributed to a positive workplace culture by fostering strong relationships with team members and consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and safety.
• Maintained optimal inventory levels with precise forklift operation and proper storage techniques.

After 3 years at Whitehaven Wines, I decided to try my hand in the beer industry. Here I was not only the Assistant Brewer but also the Duty Manager at the bar on weekends and groundskeeper too

• Assisted in recipe development, resulting in the creation of popular seasonal brews.
• Ensured consistent product quality by carefully following standard operating procedures during all stages of brewing.
• Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive customer intoxication.
• Established rapport with regular patrons through friendly and attentive service.
• Set up bar for operation, obtained cash bank, and stocked service bar.

Originally starting here as a harvest cellar hand, I quickly rose up the ranks and was selected to stay as a permanent member.

Straight out of school I became a dairy farm hand. Over the years I worked into the position of farm manager. Working primarily in Otago for most years, then managing a farm in Australia. I completed a Farming level 3 trade certificate.

• Managed farm staff efficiently, providing training and guidance for optimal performance.
• Oversaw maintenance of farm machinery, resulting in reduced downtime due to repairs or malfunctions.
• Improved herd health with regular monitoring, caring animal husbandry, and timely veterinary consultations.
• Maintained high standards of cleanliness, complying with industry regulations to ensure quality product output.
• Oversaw pasture management activities such as seeding, fertilizing, mowing, and irrigation system maintenance .
• Enhanced milk production by implementing efficient animal nutrition and feeding strategies.