Job Description

The purpose of the role

The Packaging Manager 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:

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.

Formal qualification requirement:

Diploma/Degree in a relevant field

Job-related experience:

5-8 years of relevant experience in packaging roles within the 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 contracts.

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 for fresh produce (Desirable). Process Improvement: Identifying areas for efficiency gains, analysing packaging costs, and recommending process improvement. Knowledge of fresh produce 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. 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. * Valid driver's licence