A prestigious and rapidly growing Santa Barbara wine brand is seeking a full-time Human Resources Manager / Controller to join its team. Reporting directly to Ownership, this role combines leadership of all Human Resources functions with oversight of accounting and financial operations for multiple affiliated entities.

This position is ideal for a proactive, detail-oriented professional who enjoys building systems, improving processes, and supporting a growing organization. Experience in luxury food, beverage, wine, hospitality, or other high-end consumer brands is highly desirable. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced startup environment and play a key role in shaping company culture, employee engagement, and financial performance.

Human Resources Responsibilities

• Manage all HR functions for Kiani Preserve and Kiani Preserve Cellars.
• Lead recruiting efforts, including creating job descriptions, posting positions, screening candidates, conducting preliminary interviews, and coordinating hiring with department leaders.
• Oversee employee onboarding and offboarding, including offer letters, compliance documentation, orientation, training coordination, handbook review, and exit processes.
• Support employee relations by managing performance reviews, probationary evaluations, employee concerns, conflict resolution, investigations, and disciplinary matters.
• Advise management on hiring decisions, promotions, compensation adjustments, and terminations.
• Manage PTO requests, employee records, internal communications, retention initiatives, and employee engagement programs.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, HR policies, and company procedures.
• Administer employee benefits, including health insurance enrollment, renewals, provider coordination, and employee support.
• Assist with workers’ compensation administration, claims management, audits, inspections, and loss-prevention initiatives.
• Process payroll and maintain employee compensation records.
• Manage and optimize the Rippling HR platform.
• Serve as Safety Officer by coordinating workplace safety programs, training, inspections, risk assessments, OSHA compliance, and accident investigations.
• Assist in the development and updating of company policies, procedures, and employee handbook materials.
• Provide support for general office administration, document management, and organizational processes.

Controller Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and oversee all accounting operations.
• Maintain financial systems for revenue, expenses, budgets, forecasts, and operational reporting.
• Develop and monitor financial and operating benchmarks to support business growth.
• Implement and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Prepare internal financial statements and coordinate external reporting as needed.
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll reporting, and tax compliance, including sales and excise taxes.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and all applicable local, state, and federal reporting requirements.
• Monitor debt obligations and financial commitments.
• Assess existing accounting processes and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide financial analysis, reporting, and strategic recommendations to Ownership and Management.
• Collaborate with vendors, service providers, and outside advisors to strengthen the company’s financial position.
• Support short- and long-term business planning initiatives.
• Participate in leadership and team meetings to communicate financial performance and business objectives.
• Assist with special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, Human Resources, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum three years of experience in Human Resources, accounting, controller, or related management roles.
• Experience managing payroll, benefits administration, employee relations, and HR compliance.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, tax compliance, and internal controls.
• Experience supporting high-growth or entrepreneurial organizations preferred.
• Working knowledge of labor, employment, EEO, wage and hour, and workplace safety regulations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, coaching, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships across all levels of an organization.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Flexible and responsive in managing changing priorities and business needs.
• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record.
• Successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screening.

Compensation & Benefits

This is a full-time salaried position offering competitive compensation based on experience, along with benefits that include medical and dental insurance, paid vacation, and sick leave.

Pay: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person