Packaging Development Manager at Lactalis South Africa

Job Description    

• The Packaging Development Manager is responsible for all aspects of packaging development for new dairy products, from concept to commercialisation, while ensuring adherence to quality, safety, and regulatory standards. You will support the Packaging Development activities for all relevant markets.  This role requires a creative and strategic thinker who can collaborate with cross-functional teams, leverage market insights, technical trends and developments within the entire product development lifecycle.

Required Skills    

• A Degree in Food Science, Dairy Technology, or related field
• Diploma/degree in packaging technology or related qualification.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in packaging development in the food industry, with a strong track record of bringing new products to market. Dairy experience would be an advantage.
• In-depth understanding of processing, ingredient functionality, and product formulation.
• Proven track record of successfully bringing new products to market.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements and quality standards related to dairy products.
• Innovative mindset with a passion for exploring new technologies and techniques.
• Creative thinker with a passion for innovation and keeping up-to-date with industry trends.
• Proficiency in using software tools for project management, data analysis, and presentations.
• Ability to manage and develop a high performance team.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Responsible for driving packaging innovation and providing technical packaging expertise to the business, for both existing and new materials, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery in support of NPD, Innovation and Renovation strategy
• Provide innovative options for new products and packaging upgrades
• Ensure that all packaging for new products meets with customer and business expectations whilst adhering to legislative, quality, safety and environmental standards.
• Drive continuous improvement through value engineering and cost-effective material alternatives
• Robust Packaging governance to ensure it continues to meet the needs of the business and external stakeholders.
• Set requirements and specifications for new packaging solutions that are sustainable.
• Efficiently deliver Packaging Technology and supporting processes which help step change and differentiating our business and optimising product distribution.
• Conduct product / packaging compatibility, stability testing and transit trials for performance under various
• Sign off artwork to ensure printability, brand integrity and compliance within relevant legislation and where applicable, approve and sign off final packaging print online.
• Provide technical support to marketing, design houses, procurement, various Lactalis factories and production teams.
• Generate andProactively respond to market dynamics, adjusting current packaging solutions within current statutory/ legislated, cost and production constraints, in collaboration with relevant internal stakeholders, that meet the needs of diverse consumer segments.
• Identify and evaluate new packaging solutions, considering feasibility, profitability, and alignment with the company's strategic goals.
• Trouble shooting quality and operational issues with existing products and implementing corrective actions plans.

Project Management:

• Create and manage project timelines, milestones, and budgets for new product initiatives.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, operations, procurement and quality to ensure seamless execution of projects.

Sustainability:

• To support Corporate Sustainability Program in the Food Packaging domain.
• Collaborate with the company’s internal departments to develop a co-ordinated packaging and sustainability plan.
• Work with suppliers, material and recycling industry experts to encourage the best practices to deliver our Sustainability plan and governance.
• Develop the business case to address packaging sustainability issues and ensure sustainability plan enhances business performance and supports the long-term interests of the company

Market Analysis:

• Stay updated on relevant industry trends, consumer preferences, and competitor products to identify opportunities for product innovation and differentiation.
• Complete trade visits to monitor our packaging performance, keep abreast of latest packaging developments, innovations, trends and track competitor activity.
• Analyse market data and insights to make informed decisions about product positioning and development priorities.

 Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure that all packaging development activities adhere to relevant food safety and quality requirements, regulations, as well as internal standards.
• Collaborate with regulatory affairs to secure necessary approvals for new product launches and renovated products.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Effectively communicate project updates, challenges, and successes to senior management and cross-functional teams.
• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages idea sharing and open communication among team members.
• Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams comprising R&D, marketing, manufacturing, procurement and quality to ensure seamless execution of projects.
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among team members, guiding them toward a shared vision and project goals.
• Coordinate and prioritise tasks, set milestones, and manage project timelines to meet deadlines.
• Work closely with suppliers and vendors to source high-quality ingredients and packaging materials for new dairy products.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of packaging development processes, testing results, and project status, including financial implications for new developments and product upgrades
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on project progress, milestones, and challenges.