Packaging Development Manager

Packfora; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food and beverage company is seeking a Packaging Development Manager to lead the design and implementation of innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. The role requires 3-5 years of packaging development experience, strong knowledge of materials, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will drive sustainability initiatives and ensure packaging meets regulatory and brand requirements.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years in packaging development, preferably in FMCG/Food & Beverage.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials (flexibles, rigid plastics, glass, paperboard).

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute packaging innovation and strategy aligned with business goals.
• Manage packaging projects from concept to commercialization.
• Drive sustainable packaging initiatives and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Work closely with procurement and manufacturing teams to ensure smooth production.
• Oversee packaging testing protocols for durability, functionality, and safety.

Skills

Packaging development

Knowledge of packaging materials

Cross-functional collaboration

Sustainability initiatives

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s/Master’s in Packaging Engineering

Job description

Job Purpose

The Packaging Development Manager will lead the design, development, and implementation of innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective packaging solutions for a leading food and beverage company. This role ensures that packaging meets functional, regulatory, and brand requirements while optimizing supply chain efficiency and environmental impact.

Key Responsibilities

1. Packaging Strategy & Innovation

• Develop and execute packaging innovation and strategy aligned with business goals, sustainability targets, and consumer trends.
• Research and recommend new materials, technologies, and processes (e.g., biodegradable, recyclable, lightweighting).
• Lead cross-functional collaboration with R&D, Marketing, Operations, and Sustainability teams to align packaging with product needs.

2. End-to-End Packaging Development

• Manage packaging projects from concept to commercialization, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation (e.g., shelf-life studies, transport simulation, compatibility testing).

3. Sustainability & Cost Optimization

• Drive sustainable packaging initiatives (e.g., recyclability, reduced plastic usage, carbon footprint reduction).
• Identify cost-saving opportunities in materials, design, and production without compromising quality.
• Conduct supplier audits to ensure efficient sourcing.

4. Supplier & Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with procurement and manufacturing teams to ensure smooth production scalability.
• Liaise with marketing teams to ensure packaging aligns with brand identity and consumer appeal.

5. Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Oversee packaging testing protocols (ISTA, ASTM, DIN) for durability, functionality, and safety.
• Address production line challenges related to packaging performance (e.g., sealing, filling, labeling).

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s/Master’s in Packaging Engineering, Material Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Experience:
• 3-5 years in packaging development, preferably in FMCG/Food & Beverage.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials (flexibles, rigid plastics, glass, paperboard) and manufacturing processes.