Role

The Packaging Specialist is responsible for end‑to‑end management of packaging systems and specifications for fruit‑based snack products, from early design and briefing through to commercial production and machine efficiency optimisation. The position is based at our highpace FMCG facilities near Gouda in the Western Cape.

The role ensures packaging solutions:

• Are fit for purpose, cost‑effective, and production‑ready
• Comply with food safety, labelling, and regulatory requirements
• Support operational efficiency and continuous improvement

The position works cross‑functionally with R&D, Engineering, Production, Supply Chain, Quality, and Sales to enable successful product launches and ongoing packaging performance.

Key Responsibilities & Tasks

Operational Contribution & Growth Enablement

• Optimise packaging machine run‑rates and reduce packaging waste
• Develop and maintain SOPs for optimal machine setup and operating conditions
• Support machine troubleshooting during breakdowns and performance issues
• Assist with packaging equipment specifications, commissioning, and upgrades
• Conduct machine capacity and efficiency calculations
• Drive continuous improvement in packaging configuration and material usage

Product Development, Launch & Collaboration

• Collaborate with R&D on:
• Packaging dielines and specifications
• Material selection and innovation
• Packaging functionality during concept development
• Brief and approve artwork and labelling in alignment with client and regulatory requirements
• Conduct and evaluate packaging and transport tests
• Participate in R&D project handover into commercial production
• Liaise with packaging suppliers and source new packaging solutions and vendors

 Quality, Production & Supplier Interface

• Conduct quality checks on incoming packaging materials
• Provide technical guidance on printing technologies (e.g. flexographic vs digital)
• Support production through training of machine operators
• Act as technical packaging contact for internal teams and suppliers

Governance, Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with:
• Food safety standards
• Packaging and food labelling regulations (local & international)
• Maintain audit readiness and prevent non‑conformances
• Minimise product recall and regulatory risk through sound packaging governance

Values & Ways of Working

Demonstrate Grassroots Group values in all activities:

• Trusted relationships – collaborative and transparent engagement
• Quality excellence – high standards in execution
• Innovation – proactive packaging development and improvement
• Can‑do attitude – solution‑focused, hands‑on approach
• Sustainability – responsible use of materials and resources
• People focus – respect for teams and communities