Head of Packaging - Primafruit

I am working with Prima Fruit, a well-established fresh produce business supplying high quality fruit to major retailers across the UK. With a strong reputation for quality, service and innovation, they continue to invest in their people, processes and supply chain to support future growth.

As a result, they are looking to appoint a Head of Packaging to lead and develop their packaging function.
This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for all packaging procurement, technical compliance, stock management and packaging operations across the business. You'll lead a small team while working closely with Operations, Commercial, Supply Chain, Finance and Technical teams to ensure packaging materials are available, compliant, cost-effective and fit for purpose.
The role offers a great mix of strategic and hands-on responsibility. You'll be responsible for supplier management, contract negotiation, stock optimisation, packaging compliance and driving continuous improvement projects that improve efficiency, reduce waste and deliver cost savings.

What you'll be doing:

• Leading the Packaging function across procurement, compliance, stock control and operational performance

• Managing supplier relationships, service levels and packaging contracts

• Driving cost reduction initiatives and identifying opportunities for improved efficiencies

• Using data, forecasting and reporting to optimise stock levels and reduce supply risk

• Ensuring compliance with EPR, PPT, BRC requirements and customer standards

• Supporting packaging development projects and technical packaging requirements

• Driving automation, digitalisation and continuous improvement initiatives

• Leading, developing and mentoring the Packaging team

• Working cross-functionally to improve communication, planning and operational performance

What we're looking for:

• Experience within a Packaging, Procurement, Supply Chain or Operational leadership role

• Strong commercial awareness and supplier management experience

• A track record of delivering measurable improvements in cost, efficiency or service

• Experience leading and developing teams

• Strong analytical skills and confidence using data to support decision making

• Knowledge of packaging compliance, legislation and industry standards would be advantageous

• Experience within food manufacturing or fresh produce would be highly desirable

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced packaging professional to join a growing business where they can make a genuine impact, influence business decisions and help shape the future direction of the packaging function.