Packaging Manager

Description/Synopsis

Take the lead as a Packaging Manager with a respected agricultural operation in Stellenbosch. This role is responsible for the effective and efficient management of all packaging stock in the supply chain, aligning supply with production and sales needs. The successful candidate will support brand launches, seasonal operations, and new product development, while driving packaging innovation, collaborating with suppliers, and championing continuous improvement.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced packaging professional to make a strategic impact within a high-performance environment.

• Diploma or Degree in Packaging, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a relevant discipline
• 5–8 years’ background in packaging leadership, ideally involving agricultural products and fresh produce
• Substantial experience in packaging design, planning, or development (preferred)
• 3–5 years in packaging cost analysis or process optimisation (advantageous)
• Project delivery experience in packaging-related initiatives (advantageous)
• Significant exposure to inventory systems and operational stock control
• History of collaborating with packaging suppliers and overseeing contract negotiations

• Awareness of industry standards and regulatory requirements
• Knowledge of eco-friendly/sustainable packaging (preferred)
• Familiarity with technical design principles in fresh produce packaging (preferred)
• Experience in process assessment, efficiency improvement and cost evaluation
• Understanding of various packaging formats, testing, and sector-specific requirements

• Stock Management & Planning: Coordinate seasonal packaging plans, manage stock levels, and support brand rollout logistics.
• Packhouse Support: Serve as primary contact for packhouses, ensuring alignment on specifications and stock planning through regular site visits and communication.
• Supplier Management: Manage supplier relationships, conduct reviews, negotiate pricing, and ensure accreditation.
• Project & Customer Support: Contribute to project updates, mitigate supply risks, and support packaging needs for NPD with cross-functional teams.
• Operational Planning: Develop seasonal calendars, review service levels, and improve operational processes.
• Reporting: Manage stock records and reports, support monthly reporting, and contribute to strategic reviews.
• Resource Management: Manage a digital repository of all related packaging documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.
• Innovation & NPD: Contribute to packaging innovation and lead NPD initiatives by the second year.
• Personal Development: Actively participate in performance reviews, training, and career development activities.

• Problem-solving skills:
  Identifying and addressing issues related to packaging.
• Close attention to detail.
• Clear and effective communication with suppliers, internal teams, and stakeholders.
• Competent in Microsoft Office programmes – notably Excel.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong planning & organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, track inventory, and maintain documentation. Multi-tasking is essential.
• Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and recommend improvements.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines:
  Maintaining a high level of efficiency and accuracy under pressure.