Lead Packaging Technologist: Culinary at Tiger Brands

THE JOB AT A GLANCE

As Snr Packaging Technologist you will assume the lead role for key supplier and external customer interface within the material specialization. You are responsible for the successful coordination of the development and launch of good quality, differentiated, and cost effective packaging innovations across multiple packaging substrates. This includes leading the interface with Supply Chain during the optimization of packaging machines as well as the re-engineering and of existing packaging. You will develop both deep material expertise (sourcing, design, manufacture) and deep category expertise and become known in the organisation for this and your ability to influence the design and/or selection of new packaging machines. You will ensure that documentation and reporting around packaging development and timely and concise. Where necessary you will work with and manage packaging suppliers to deliver packaging product.

RESPONSIBILITIES

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Develop the packaging design and work with Product Technologist and Supply Chain to ensure that it supports both the product requirements and the manufacturing requirements. Create the packaging specification and requirements to support this.
• From development, manage the packaging for innovation through to commercialisation and smooth manufacturing.
• Support Supply Chain on existing packaging where problems may occur and focus on re-engineering and cost efficiency improvements.
• Work with Packaging Optimisation Specialist and NPD Manager to appropriately allocate your time and expertise to the projects and Category partners.
• Engage with procurement regarding supplier selection and work with Supply Chain to determine plant requirements and Capex investment if necessary. Complete machine diagrams/ die lines and get it signed off by the unit. Determine pallet pattern.
• If appropriate, work with external suppliers to jointly design and develop packaging. This includes the design and management of packaging specifications and requirements for manufacture
• Develop deep material expertise through working on specific projects, carrying out research, and working with suppliers. Work with Packaging Manager to decide how to capture and share this knowledge.
• Work with Packaging Optimisation Specialist, Supply Chain, and NPD Managers to ensure that packaging design changes are carried out in a controlled and consistent fashion.

QUALIFICATIONS

WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE TABLE

Key attributes and competencies

• Technical Knowledge – knowledge of the makeup of different packaging.
• Teamwork– ability to work well within your team and with other disciplines internally and externally.
• Clear communication – ability to clearly articulate project goals, status, and challenges as well as managing stakeholder expectations.
• Problem-solving and analysis – proactively identify and mitigate potential risks.
• Decision Making - ability to design, implement and review experimental outcomes and decide on best option forward based on information received.
• Delivery Driven – ability to prioritise and manage conflicting demands of your time.

Experience

• 6-8 years in packaging development within an FMCG
• Bachelor’s degree in Process Engineering, Science or equivalent; plus, a Packaging Diploma (IPSA).