Product and Packaging Designer

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To design, conceptualize, and develop product and packaging solutions that are cost-effective, visually appealing, and functional. These solutions are responsible for protecting products, communicating brand identity, attracting consumers, and complying with sustainability and regulatory requirements.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Improvement in Recyclability Rates
• Packaging Solutions Implemented
• Collaboration & Compliance with Internal and External Stakeholders
• Project Management
• Sales Uplift
• Cost Savings
• Administration and Ad Hoc

JOB INCUMBENT REQUIREMENTS

• Degree or Diploma in Graphic Design/ Product Design/ Industrial Design or related fields
• 3- 5 years in similar role
• At Least 3 years experience in Retail

Hard Skills (Technical)

• Design Software Proficiency: Graphic Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

Packaging Materials & Production Processes:

• Deep understanding of various materials: Paperboard, corrugated cardboard, plastics (various types), flexible packaging, sustainable/biodegradable alternatives etc.
• Knowledge of manufacturing techniques: Die-cutting, printing processes (offset, flexo, digital) etc.
• Understanding of finishes: Varnishes, laminates, embossing, debossing, foil stamping.

Cost-effectiveness in Design: The ability to design with production efficiency and material optimization in mind is essential.

Graphic Design & Branding Principles:

• Typography: Effective use of fonts for readability and brand voice.
• Colour Theory: Understanding print colour matching (Pantone), and colour separation.
• Layout and Composition: Creating visually balanced and impactful designs.
• Branding: Ability to interpret brand guidelines and translate them into cohesive packaging designs that reinforce brand identity and values.
• Information Hierarchy: Organizing text and visuals to effectively communicate product information, benefits, and legal requirements.
• High Standard of Design

Sustainability & Environmental Considerations:

• Knowledge of eco-friendly materials, design for recyclability/compostability, reduction of material usage, and circular economy principles.
• Awareness of environmental regulations and consumer demand for sustainable packaging.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Understanding of labelling laws, regulations, consumer safety standards, and specific legal requirements (e.g. SA standards).

Market & Consumer Research:

• The ability to conduct and interpret market trends, consumer preferences, and competitor analysis to inform design decisions is a key skill.

Soft Skills (Competencies)

• Interpersonal Strengths: This role requires strong stakeholder and supplier management skills. The candidate must be a team player who thrives on collaboration and open feedback. They should be able to build and nurture internal and external relationships to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Personal & Conceptual Strengths: The designer must be highly conceptual and creative. They should be ambitious, proactive, and eager to take ownership of projects. The candidate must have exceptional
  
  attention to detail with a flair for visual storytelling. They should also be comfortable working in a
  
  fast-paced, highly creative environment.
• General Skills: The candidate must be fluent in English.

• Other skills include strong negotiation skills and the ability to persuade and influence others to achieve organizational goals. They must be able to plan and align initiatives with organizational goals and objectives.

• Competencies required: Accuracy, Devotion to quality, Results-oriented, Creating support, Drive, Initiative, Stress Resistance, Innovating, Situational awareness