Packaging Specialist: Materials - Heineken

Applications are invited for the above-mentioned position in Supply Chain Services at the Engineering Centre Of Excellence based in Stellenbosch. The successful candidate will report to the Lead Packaging.

Purpose of the position:

Provide technical leadership in the field of Packaging Materials Management to the Packing Centre of Excellence Team to achieve strategic business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide specialized technical consulting and systemic support in materials management to the business to enable them to achieve operational excellence.
• Remain current with Packaging Material development to ensure that Group Packaging can remain competitive within the market by offering innovative Packaging that drives the best quality, highest efficiency, and lowest cost.
• Provide direct support to plants on Material development, NPI and innovation projects as well as complex problem solving, where determined.
• Support group materials procurement to drive continuous improvement and reduce working capital for the group to manage cost and value add.
• Ensure successful execution of all Materials Management projects (Packaging related).
• Support continuous review of packaging materials standards across the Group.
• Ensure the packaging materials standards are current and in line with best practices.
• Ensure the selection of packaging material is based on quality, efficiency, food safety, and not simply cost.
• Support Group Packaging problem-solving initiatives.
• Develop good relationships with Packaging Materials suppliers.
• Collaborate with other business units to maximize the potential for supply chain optimization projects.
• Investigate, evaluate, and select the best appropriate packaging materials for innovations.

• Work closely with the Innovation department to develop new packaging materials.
• Provide support to Group Materials Procurement in the area of dual supply to ensure consistent material supply to meet business objectives.
• Coach and mentor Packaging talent (as identified) across the group.
• Drive your development to ensure specialist knowledge/skills remain world-class.
• Lead Packaging Materials forums and proactively interact within Supply Chain and Marketing.
• Lead Packaging Materials supplier forums to improve materials supply for Heineken Beverages.
• Follow Heineken Beverages’ policies and procedures and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Education, Skills and Experience Required:

• Relevant Diploma in Engineering or Materials
• At least 5 - 10 years of experience in a similar role.
• FMCG, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks operations Experience.
• Demonstrated track record in multinational operations, engineering, manufacturing, and capital projects management leadership in the FMCG industry.
• Project management, financial analysis, simulation, and consulting skills.
• Proven leadership skills.
• Strong analytical and reporting abilities.
• Excellent communication skills.