Packaging Technologist

Packaging Technologist (Regulatory & Vendor Management)

Job Description:

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Packaging Technologist with a solid understanding of regulatory affairs and experience in managing packaging projects from concept to completion. This role requires in-depth knowledge of FSSAI standards, Local guidelines, environmental regulations, and nutrition value calculation. You will also be responsible for managing vendor relationships, ensuring order execution under low Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), overseeing vendor payments, and maintaining an efficient inventory of packaging materials.

Key Responsibilities:

Packaging Design & Development:

- Design and develop packaging solutions for a variety of products, ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness.

- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure packaging designs meet product specifications and consumer needs.

- Stay updated on packaging trends and innovations to implement best practices.

Regulatory Compliance:

- Ensure all packaging materials comply with FSSAI standards for food safety, labelling, and packaging regulations.

- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of BBMP (local government) standards and environmental packaging guidelines, ensuring sustainable practices.

- Calculate and verify nutritional values for packaging labels to meet regulatory requirements.

- Collaborate with quality control and legal teams to ensure all product packaging meets necessary safety and regulatory requirements.

Vendor Management:

- Liaise with packaging vendors to ensure timely delivery and quality of materials, especially under low MOQs.

- Negotiate and manage contracts with vendors, focusing on price, quality, and delivery schedules.

- Work closely with vendors to troubleshoot any issues related to packaging materials or order execution.

- Monitor vendor performance, ensuring alignment with company goals and regulatory standards.

Inventory Management:

- Maintain accurate records of packaging material inventory, ensuring adequate stock levels are available to meet production needs.

- Monitor and manage packaging material consumption to prevent shortages and overstocking.

- Coordinate with procurement and logistics teams to ensure timely reordering of packaging materials.

- Implement inventory control processes to optimize storage and reduce wastage.

Vendor Payments & Logistics:

- Oversee the end-to-end process of vendor payments, ensuring timely and accurate invoicing and payment tracking.

- Coordinate with the finance department to manage payment cycles and resolve any billing issues.

- Ensure smooth logistics and supply chain management, coordinating with internal teams for stock and inventory management.

Environmental & Sustainability Initiatives:

- Implement and promote sustainable packaging practices to minimize environmental impact.

- Ensure that packaging materials comply with environmental laws and regulations, focusing on waste reduction and recyclability.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

- Work closely with the procurement, marketing, quality control, and product development teams to ensure smooth packaging operations.

- Support marketing with packaging innovations that highlight sustainability and compliance with food safety standards.

- Assist in product launches by ensuring all packaging components are delivered on time and to spec.

Qualifications & Skills:

- Bachelor's degree in Packaging Technology, Food Science, Regulatory Affairs, or related field.

- 3+ years of experience in packaging development and regulatory compliance (FSSAI, Legal, environmental standards).

- Proven experience in managing vendor relationships, particularly under low MOQs.

- Knowledge of nutrition value calculation for packaging labels.

- Familiarity with environmental sustainability in packaging.

- Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

- Experience in maintaining and managing packaging material inventory.

- Excellent communication and negotiation skills to manage vendors and cross-functional teams.

- Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

- Knowledge of packaging materials and processes, including innovative and sustainable options.