Packaging Coordinator

Berry World; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the agricultural sector seeks a Packaging Coordinator to ensure effective management of packaging stock. This role involves stock management, supplier relations, and supporting new product development while driving innovation. Qualified candidates with 5-8 years of experience in relevant packaging roles are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• 5-8 Years relevant experience in packaging roles within the agricultural industry.
• 5-8 Years experience in packaging design or planning (Desirable).
• 3-5 Years cost analysis and project management experience (Desirable).

Responsibilities

• Coordinate seasonal packaging plans and manage stock levels.
• Serve as primary contact for packhouses and manage supplier relationships.
• Contribute to project updates and support packaging needs for NPD.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Microsoft Office

Planning and organizing skills

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Data analysis

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Diploma/Degree in relevant field

Job description

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: 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 the agricultural industry 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 (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 stakeholders.
• Competent in 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-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