Packaging Specialist at AVI Limited

Job description

Snackworks seeks to attract an energetic team player to take on the challenging role of Packaging Specialist. This role will involve managing the Packaging Development Process from concept to industrialization. Your drive for excellence and attention to detail will hold you in good stead as you build your career within this dynamic team. The successful candidate will be based at the Westmead (Durban) Biscuit Factory and report directly to the Packaging Manager.

A completed technical degree and relevant accredited qualification in packaging technology, with five years’ experience in FMCG is required for this role. Sales and Marketing interaction experience will be a benefit together with direct supplier experience.

Key Performance Areas:

• Holistic Project Management of new product packaging initiatives and strong working knowledge of supply cost structures, techniques for cost avoidance and impact on the demand cost structure.
• Developing effective packaging within the given budget
• Develop packs for innovation and translate a prototype concept into a fully commercialised package, working closely with suppliers
• Application of necessary packaging development skills to ensure “Design for Quality” packaging designed which performs well at all stages in the Supply Chain
• Create and obtain new die lines for new packaging design
• Create mock up samples for departmental approval
• Conduct packaging/product compatibility and stability tests
• Drawing up of complete and accurate packaging material specifications
• Ensure that correct specifications are captured along with artwork
• Evaluate and present new packaging technologies & ideas to Marketing, Technical and Engineering Teams
• Provide technical input on Marketing concepts
• Be part of in house artwork approval process
• Evaluate current range, offer and make suggestions of how packaging can be improved, to ensure optimal packaging design and functionality
• Document Standard operating practices for audits
• Manage yields where problem trends have been noted
• Supporting all new product development efforts by providing packaging expertise Both technically and legislatively
• Designing, implementation and upkeep of briefing document
• Sourcing new packaging from representatives at various companies depending on the nature of the product
• Checking all the various stages, from initial concept, mock-ups, DTP’s and final artwork
• Liaising with the Buyer, the Technologist and the Supplier to get their approval for various aspects applicable to them
• Where needed attend print runs to sign off packaging for colour, layout and design
• Participating in sustainability initiatives
• Manage plant and packaging production trials with CI team
• Manage packaging validation and qualification on-line with CI team
• Liaise with design houses and marketing with regards to artwork approval and sign-off
• Interface across functions e.g. Marketing, Production, QA, Procurement, Technical
• Maintain packaging specifications and systems management
• Evaluate packaging and usage trends for cost saving opportunities
• Assist vendor assurance of packaging suppliers
• Development and adaptation packaging testing for the FMCG environment
• Complete colour standards for library
• Training and Development of subordinates

Experience:

• A minimum of Five years’ experience in a similar role within the FMCG environment
• Experience in new product development processes and milestone planning

Qualifications:

• A completed qualification related to Food Technology or Food Sciences
• A Packaging Diploma or related qualification essential

Knowledge:

• Computer literacy and knowledge of a business transaction system e.g. SAP
• Knowledge of the South African packaging industry
• Knowledge of QMS systems and HACCP
• Packaging materials across various disciplines and formats, e.g. plastics, corrugates, paper, laminates, flexible films, etc.
• Packaging conversion processes such as blow moulding, injection moulding, lamination, cartons, extrusion, printing processes and colour technology
• Artwork design & development
• Assist with the repro process to proofing
• Mould development
• Trade metrology
• Issue new works maps
• Check bar code compliancy at artwork level
• Form fill and seal
• Pallet optimization and utilization - proven experience working with Cape Pack
• Carton erection and cartoning
• Collation and shrink wrapping
• Case packing – corrugate, case sealing
• Date coding
• Label applicators
• Maintain Bills of Materials for packaging changes.
• Understand the legislation and recall requirement process
• Implement a standard procedure and process to execute when necessary.

Competencies:

• Apply and develop technical / functional skills
• Plan and think ahead
• Manage and share info
• Focus on achieving results
• Work with others
• Optimise business performance