Packaging Technologist at Ackermans

• We’re looking for a creative and technically minded Packaging Technologist to shape packaging from concept to production across our Apparel and Non‑Apparel ranges.
• In this role, you’ll design packaging that’s cost‑effective, sustainable, on‑brand, and flawlessly executed across the full value chain -ensuring every Ackermans product arrives in-store looking its best and ready to delight our customers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• To research source and develop new and existing product packaging in accordance with company strategy.
• Structural and graphic design of packaging and labels
• Develop die lines, specs and manage artwork through to print
• Ensure packaging meets brand, functional and sustainability requirements
• Set and maintain packaging specifications
• Lead testing - transit, performance and print quality
• Ensure regulatory compliance
• Work with packaging suppliers on prototypes, tooling, pre-production samples.
• Run RFQs, negotiate costs, and drive value engineering.
• Manage packaging critical paths to ensure on-time delivery.
• Improve recyclability, reduce material usage, and introduce PCR where possible.
• Ensure packaging meets EPR and sustainability targets.
• Partner with Buying, Marketing, QA, and DC Ops to ensure packaging is shelf-ready and operationally efficient
• Support e-commerce and photography with packaging assets and information.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Essential Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in manufacturing, retail product technology, or packaging development within Retail, Fashion or FMCG environments.
• Experience creating structural and graphic packaging for apparel and/or accessories in a retail environment.
• Experience in evaluating product packaging samples and providing technical feedback to ensure packaging is fit for purpose and meets quality standards.
• Experience in cost engineering and supplier management related to product or packaging development.

Preferred Experience

• Exposure to production quality auditing and retail production standards.
• General understanding of fashion retail industry practices and product development processes.

​​​​​​​QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Essential:

• Grade 12 Certificate/Matric
• Diploma/Degree in graphic design and/or packaging design

Preferred:

• National Diploma in clothing/fashion design /retail management/clothing production OR
• Bachelor Degree in Consumer Science (with specialisation in Clothing Management), OR
• Certificate in Packaging Technology from the Institute of Packaging South Africa

​​​​​​​JOB RELATED KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS REQUIRED

KNOWLEDGE required:

• Understanding of sustainable packaging principles and environmentally responsible material selection.
• Good working knowledge of production-related health and safety practices.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials (substrates), print processes, and packaging testing standards.
• Relevant legislation (e.g. Country of Origin Labelling Act)
• Knowledge of SABS standards (area specific)
• Supplier base knowledge (capabilities and areas of specialisation)
• Understand of related services – Distribution Centres, Customer Care, Marketing, Stores
• Understanding of retail critical path and buying cycle
• Product Technology processes and standards

SKILLS required:

• Strong project management skills
• Attention to detail & accuracy
• Sound problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Commercial thinking with a focus on cost, quality and timelines
• Creative yet practical approach to packaging
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, with strong CAD and Adobe Illustrator skills for technical drawings and specifications.
• Excellent command of the English language, verbally and in writing
• The ability to communicate business expectations effectively to suppliers and technical information to non-technical audiences
• Effectively represent the company to external customers, suppliers and stakeholders
• Analytical skills
• Sound planning, organising & time management skills
• Good networking, interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Negotiating skills
• Good conflict management skills