Job Description

A subsidiary of a global soft fruit marketing company, is looking for a Packaging Coordinator, who wants to grow together with their team from South Africa. The role will be based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Main Purpose of the Role:
The Packaging Coordinator ensures the effective and efficient management of packaging stock across the supply chain, aligning supply with production and sales needs. This role supports brand launches, seasonal operations, and new product development (NPD), while driving innovation, supplier collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities: * 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: Maintain stock records and reports, support monthly reporting, and contribute to strategic reviews.
• Resource Management: Maintain 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.

Formal qualification requirement:

• Diploma/Degree in relevant field

Job-related experience:

• 5-8 Years relevant experience in packaging roles within agricultural business and fresh produce.
• 5-8 Years relevant experience in packaging design, development, or planning (Desirable).
• 3-5 Years cost analysis: Evaluation of packaging costs and identification of areas for optimization (Desirable).
• 3-5 Years project management: Experience in managing packaging projects from start to finish (Desirable).
• 5-8 Years inventory management: Experience with inventory systems and stock control.
• 5-8 Years supplier relations: Experience working with suppliers and negotiating contract

Job-related knowledge:

• Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant industry regulations and standards.
• Sustainability Awareness: Understanding of sustainable packaging practices and eco-friendly materials (Desirable).
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in packaging design (Desirable).
• Process Improvement: Identifying areas for efficiency gains, analysing packaging costs, and recommending process improvement.
• Knowledge of packaging materials and processes: Understanding of different packaging types, their properties, and suitability for various products, testing methods and industry standards or requirements.

Job-related skills:

• Problem-solving skills: Identifying and addressing issues related to packaging.
• High attention to detail
• Clear and effective communication with suppliers, internal teams, and stakeholder.
• Competent on Microsoft Office programmes
• Strong planning and organising skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Good time management
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, track inventory, and maintain documentation. Multi taking 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.
• Valid driver's licence

Why Join Us?

• Be part of an industry-leading company specialising in marketing of blueberries.
• Work closely with top-tier growers, enhancing their production capabilities and profitability.
• Gain access to cutting-edge genetic programs and the latest agricultural innovations.
• Contribute to a team that values expertise, innovation, and strong business relationships.

If you are passionate about agriculture and eager to make an impact in the soft fruit industry, apply today to join their dynamic team!