Farm network manager, Jan du Toit, has been a member of our Alvi’s Drift family since 2005.

With nearly two decades of dedicated work on our farm, his leadership philosophy and focus on empowerment have been an inspiration and example to everyone he works with.

Jan is well-known for his commitment to sustainable farming practices and working in harmony with nature. Alongside Alvi, Jan has made a considerable contribution not just to our vineyards but to our entire enterprise.

Read on for our Q&A with Jan, where he shares his insights into the world of farming, his approach to leadership and people management, and his hopes for our third-generation winery’s future.

How did you start working at Alvi’s Drift?

My relationship with Dr Alvi began long before I started working here at Alvi’s Drift. In 1996, Alvi was my family doctor. I took my young daughter to see him after other doctors couldn’t treat her illness, but thanks to Alvi, she recovered. During our visits, we often spoke about farming, which was a shared passion of ours.

By 2005, I felt ready to take on a new challenge. I wanted to manage an entire farm by myself, make my own decisions, and have the freedom to put my ideas into practice. I interviewed at Alvi’s Drift with Alvi’s father, Mr Bertie van der Merwe, on my 35th birthday. At first, they wanted me to manage just the farm’s orchards, but I pushed for more responsibility. I told them I wanted to manage an entire farm by myself.

Alvi and his father then entrusted me with some vineyard blocks, and I started working here on 1 November 2005. Within two months, Alvi began assigning me more vineyard blocks to manage. The trust that was placed in me just inspired me to work harder.

What motivates you in your work?

The promise of the fruits of my labour is something that really motivates me. When I prune a vine today, I don’t just see the vine before me – I see the fruit it will produce in a few months’ time. To me, farming is a process of constant investment in the future.

Another source of motivation is my team. The way I see it, we’re all here for a common goal; no one is being forced to be here. I don’t believe in micromanaging or policing people. Instead, I focus on guiding and supporting them as individuals.

At the end of the day, my biggest joy comes from what my team and I achieve together. It’s deeply fulfilling to see the growth in the people I work with, both professionally and personally.

How do you, as a manager, empower your team?

In agriculture, people are by far your most important asset. Without people, no farm can thrive. My approach to leadership is simple: I teach my team to think critically, understand their potential, and work independently.

I believe it’s crucial to develop people’s abilities and equip them to make their own decisions. If someone learns new skills here and eventually moves on to a better job, that’s something I celebrate. It means I’ve played a part in their growth, and they’re taking the lessons learned here to build a better future for themselves.

Empowerment also means creating a space where people feel motivated to give their best. I encourage my team to set personal goals and take ownership of their work. When people see their own progress, they naturally want to strive for more.

What is your approach to sustainability?

To me, sustainability is about balance – working in harmony with nature and respecting the resources we rely on. I believe nature contributes 80% of what we do, and we contribute the remaining 20%.

When I first started at Alvi’s Drift, the vineyard soils were hard and bare. Over the years, Alvi and I worked very hard to reintroduce natural-growing plants and weeds into the orchards and vineyards. These plants are essential because they support soil organisms, which in turn regenerate the land. Healthy soil is the foundation of sustainable farming. It all starts with the soil.

Sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s also about people. Giving someone a “hand up” rather than a “handout” helps them build confidence and a sense of independence.

Sharing your knowledge and changing mindsets are the keys to true sustainability because they enable people to trust their abilities and become self-reliant.

How has working at Alvi’s Drift shaped your career journey?

Looking back, I can honestly say that joining Alvi’s Drift was one of the best decisions of my life. The trust and opportunities I’ve been given here have allowed me to grow as a manager, leader, and person.

Farming isn’t just about producing crops – it’s about people. Every decision we make, every vine we plant, and every innovation we introduce ultimately impacts the lives of the people who work here. Alvi’s Drift has taught me the importance of empowering others and working together toward a shared vision.

What are your hopes for the future of Alvi’s Drift?

Since I started here in 2005, my goal has always been for Alvi’s Drift to grow in both quality and quantity. I envision a future where the farm thrives not just as a business, but as a community where the people of Alvi’s Drift grow and develop alongside the business.

Every day, I see more potential in Alvi’s Drift than I did the day before. Ten years from now, I believe this farm will be even more successful. Remember, true growth isn’t just about profits; it’s about creating opportunities and ensuring everyone who works here benefits from our success.

Alvi’s Drift: A Story of Sustainability & Investment in People

Our farm network manager, Jan du Toit’s story is one of hard work, commitment, and a deep dedication to sustainability. Jan’s approach to farming, which balances respect for nature with a commitment to empowering people, truly reflects the values that define our third-generation winery.

At Alvi’s Drift, we believe that sustainability starts with people. By investing in our employees and fostering a culture of growth and innovation, we’re building more than a business – we’re building a legacy.

We believe that Jan’s journey at Alvi’s Drift is proof that when people are given the opportunity to grow, they can achieve remarkable things – for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Learn more about how our winery is shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for the children of our farm, our worker community, and our greater community here.