Packaging Analyst at Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL)

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for ensuring the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of packaging processes and materials in KWAL. This role in collaboration with Heineken Centre of Excellence (CoE) on packaging solutions and the supply chain teams develop and manage the product packaging that enhances the product’s appeal and functionality to meet market needs and company goals. 

Main Responsibilities

Packaging Material Development and Analysis 

• Evaluate the performance, quality, and cost of packaging materials for KWAL products.
• Conduct compatibility tests between beverages and packaging materials.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and sustainability goals.
• Explore options for sustainable materials, while embracing the eco-friendly design.
• Collaborate with Heineken Centre of excellence on Packaging solutions and supply chain teams locally to develop product packaging that enhances the product’s appeal and functionality to hook the consumer.
• Implement sustainable practices in product and packaging development in support of KWAL ESG initiatives.
• In collaboration with the Heineken Centre of excellence, the plant engineering and procurement teams develop and document the packaging materials technical specifications.
• Develop and implement packaging material defect list criteria with the suppliers.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Ensure all packaging materials from the manufacturer meet the acceptable technical specifications, quality standards and regulatory requirements for beverage safety and functionality.
• Monitor the use of packaging materials on the production lines to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements, and promptly recall any damaged packages/ non-conforming materials. 
• Oversee the auditing of packaging processes and materials usage in the process.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation related to packaging materials specifications and standards.
• Manage the non-conformances on both finished products and in-process packaging materials.
• Ensure compliance with local, national, and international regulations, such as Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and ISO standards.
• Develop and implement a guideline on disposal of non- conforming packaging materials, in collaboration with suppliers and procurement. 
• Establish and sustain a quality at source methodology and ensure compliance to its principles on the shopfloor.
• Coach and train operators to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the quality standards to which they must adhere.

Data Collection and Reporting

• Monitor packaging line performance, identifying trends and inefficiencies.
• Prepare detailed reports on material usage, waste, and costs.
• Analyse packaging defects and recommend corrective actions and on approval by the QSHE Manager oversee the implementation of the corrective action.
• Prepare analysis reports outlining any abnormalities such as quality deviations, recommend corrective actions and on approval by the QSHE Manager oversee the implementation of the corrective action.

Process innovation & Improvement

• Identify and implement improvements to reduce packaging material waste and enhance production efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis for packaging-related issues and implement preventive measures proactively.
• Logically Support sustainability initiatives, including material reduction and recyclable or biodegradable packaging options, factoring in the anticipated risk portfolio in the process and trade.
• Stay updated on the latest trends in packaging technology and materials science.Recommend innovative packaging solutions to improve product appeal and functionality.
• Actively participate in TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) implementation initiatives such as 5s in the laboratory and shopfloor.

Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Heineken centre of excellence on packaging materials and capabilities within KWAL in the development of new packaging materials.
• Liaise with all supply chain teams to source and test new packaging materials that meets the regulatory standards, and internal specifications. Collaborate with design teams to ensure packaging meets branding and functionality requirements.
• Communicate and collaborate with suppliers to address non-conformance issues and negotiate cost-effective solutions, favourable to KWAL.

Continuous Improvement/ TPM

• Support the TPM way of working.
• Support the implementation of the TPM improvement activities.

Minimum Required Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Material Science, Food technology, or related field.

Professional Qualifications

• Lead auditor-Quality Management systems (QMS).
• Lead auditor- FSSC 22000 V.6.
• Digital Data management- analysis and reporting.
• Supplier development & Management.

Experience 

• At least 4 years’ experience as a technician/ analyst in product development, extrinsic material management in a manufacturing or quality control environment.
• Experience in the FMCG industry or manufacturing is an added advantage.
• Practical experience in the use of MS packages and ERP systems.

Competencies

Technical Competencies

• Supplier development & Management.
• Change management.
• Understanding and knowledge in alcoholic beverage standards.
• Packaging material science / Engineering.
• Demonstrate ability to innovate in packaging solutions.
• Knowledge of regulations governing global food and beverage packaging standards.
• Competencies on industrial laboratory management.
• Experience in alcoholic beverages processing and packaging- added advantage.
• Documentation and reporting skills.
• Competencies in industrial Laboratory management.

Behavioural Competencies

• Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and staff.
• Must be proactive and be able to anticipate issues rather than being reactive.
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written and listening).
• High level of integrity.
• Demonstrate a commitment to enhancing processes and performance- regularly evaluating current practices, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing changes to drive efficiency and effectiveness.
• Continuously seeks new opportunities to enhance products and services- embracing new technologies and methodologies to drive growth and maintain a competitive edge.
• Demonstrated deep commitment and understanding to meet customer needs- . actively seeking feedback, anticipating customer preferences, and collaboratively with commercial teams tailor services to enhance satisfaction and loyalty.
• Make informed and timely decisions that align with the company’s strategic objectives- balancing short-term needs with long-term goals and considering the impact on all stakeholders.
• Embracing methodical approach to troubleshooting and problem solving while ensuring minimal disruption to the business .
• Ability to employ logical reasoning and critical analysis to evaluate information and make sound decisions- considering various perspectives and potential impacts before taking action.
• Encourage innovative ideas and approaches to improve packaging solutions and manufacturing processes- fostering a culture of creativity and experimentation to stay ahead in the market.