Packaging Buyer

Cape Herb and Spice has grown from entrepreneurial roots into a global player and now employs over 700 people and operates over 3 sites in Cape Town. Centered around innovation and quality, Cape Herb and Spice gives any candidate a great opportunity to gain extensive experience and build an exciting career. From the tip of Africa to the tip of the tongue - For over two decades Cape Herb and Spice has been bringing top quality spices and blends from Cape Town, South Africa to the world's palate. Accredited to the highest international standards and packed under strict food safety practices the range extends across daily essentials and trendy, exotic seasonings making it easy to add authentic flavour to every mealPurpose: Cape Herb & Spice is looking for a dynamic and innovative Packaging Buyer to join our packaging procurement team. You would play a key role in sourcing and procuring high-quality packaging materials for our local and international clients. With a focus on delivering exceptional value for money and ensuring timely delivery of products, you will contribute to the success and growth of our clients' businesses, collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand packaging requirements and develop effective procurement strategies. Research, identify, and evaluate potential packaging suppliers, considering factors such as quality, cost, and sustainability. Manage supplier relationships and resolve any issues or concerns that may arise. Monitor and manage inventory levels to ensure adequate supply and minimize waste. Stay informed about industry trends and advancements in packaging materials and technologies. Role Objectives: Packaging Development & Innovation Packaging Problem Solving & Solutions Provide support and assistance to the Packaging lead Key Functional Duties: Identify sustainable and cost saving packaging opportunities in Gifting & Spice Sourcing & development including trialling process & problem solving Provide Technical support Running daily reports on stock, minimum inventory and production planning Placing daily orders to suppliers Ensure timely and efficient delivery of goods and services Communication and follow ups with Key suppliers on a regular basis General Administration Attend and prepare for weekly SOP meetings Keep abreast of and research new packaging concepts, trends, market activity and innovation within the relevant categories (gifting) Identify sustainable & cost saving packaging solutions across the business (gifting & spice) Identify opportunities to reduce packaging costs (cost saving) while still maintaining product quality Problem solving & identifying packaging solutions to allow for better product functionality Assist in packaging samples during development Assisting in packaging trials & development Technical problem solving support to internal departments (NPD & Procurement). Assisting with supplier quotations & liaison (gifting) Provide support and assistance to the Packaging lead Education & Required Knowledge Either a degree or an equivalent of the below degree and 2 - 4 years' similar experience that aligns to our Packaging Buyer Key functional duties Packaging Technology Project Management Relevant business and/or logistics degree Advantageous experience in: Graphic Design (including packaging design) Product Development Commercial Syspro Computer Literacy (Microsoft office) Excel Fluency - Intermediate level Excellent verbal and written communication in English Technical knowledge and understanding of printing process and specs Personal Characteristics Deadline driven An innovative thinker Proactive and enthusiastic High attention to detail Ability to work in a high pressure and fast paced environment Ability to multi- task between multiple projects Ability to work independently and as part of a team Strong project management & coordination skill. Optimistic solution finder Commercially minded Excellent communication skills Strong interpersonal skills Optimistic & positive outlook