Packaging Buyer (Maitland) at Cape Herb & Spice

Purpose: We are looking for a dynamic and innovative Packaging Buyer to join the packaging procurement team. You will play a key role in sourcing and procuring high-quality packaging materials for our local and international clients. With a focus on delivering exceptional value for money and ensuring timely delivery of products, you will contribute to the success and growth of our clients' businesses. You will collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand packaging requirements and develop effective procurement strategies.

Role Objectives:

• Packaging Development & Innovation
• Packaging Problem Solving & Solutions
• Provide support and assistance to the Packaging Lead

Key Functional Duties:

• Identify sustainable and cost-saving packaging opportunities in Gifting & Spice
• Sourcing & development including trialling processes & problem-solving
• Provide Technical support
• Run daily reports on stock, minimum inventory, and production planning
• Place daily orders to suppliers
• Ensure timely and efficient delivery of goods and services
• Communicate and follow up with key suppliers on a regular basis
• General Administration
• Attend and prepare for weekly SOP meetings
• Keep abreast of and research new packaging concepts, trends, market activity, and innovation within the relevant categories (gifting)
• Identify sustainable & cost-saving packaging solutions across the business (gifting & spice)
• Identify opportunities to reduce packaging costs (cost saving) while still maintaining product quality
• Problem-solving & identifying packaging solutions to allow for better product functionality
• Assist in packaging samples during development
• Assist in packaging trials & development
• Provide technical problem-solving support to internal departments (NPD & Procurement)
• Assist with supplier quotations & liaison (gifting)
• Provide support and assistance to the Packaging Lead

Education & Required Knowledge:

• Either a degree or an equivalent of the below degree and 2 - 4 years’ similar experience that aligns with our Packaging Buyer key functional duties:
  • Packaging Technology
  • Project Management
  • Relevant business and/or logistics degree
• Advantageous experience in:
  • Graphic Design (including packaging design)
  • Product Development
  • Commercial
  • Syspro
• Computer Literacy (Microsoft Office)
• Excel Fluency – Intermediate level
• Excellent verbal and written communication in English
• Technical knowledge and understanding of printing processes and specs
• 2–4 years in the Food and Beverage Manufacturing industry

Personal Characteristics:

• Deadline driven
• An innovative thinker
• Proactive and enthusiastic
• High attention to detail
• Ability to work in a high-pressure and fast-paced environment
• Ability to multi-task between multiple projects
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong project management & coordination skills
• Optimistic solution finder
• Commercially minded
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Optimistic & positive outlook