NPD & Graphic Design Coordinator (Wine Industry)

SUMMARY:
Our client, a leading company in the wine industry, is seeking a highly creative and detail-oriented NPD & Design Coordinator to join their dynamic team in Stellenbosch, Cape Town. The ideal candidate will hold a Graphic Design qualification with at least four years’ experience in a similar role, and possess advanced skills in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Microsoft Office. A solid understanding of South African wine labelling legislation, including SAWIS, Liquor Products Act, and international labelling requirements, is essential. The role requires a self-motivated, organized, and team-oriented professional with excellent communication skills, the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, and a passion for quality and precision in design.

POSITION INFO:
A recent professional profile photo is to accompany your application
EMPLOYMENT TYPE    :           Permanent
SECTOR                          :           Procurement / Wine Industry  
BASIC SALARY              :           Market Related
START DATE                  :           A.S.A.P / Immediate

REQUIREMENTS:

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Graphic Design qualification.
• Minimum of four years’ experience in a similar environment or role.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Experience with SAGE (advantageous).
• Proficient in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Fluent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Strong administration skills with excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Sound knowledge of the South African wine industry, including:
  • SAWIS Label Legislation for Wine of Origin Scheme.
  • South African wine label requirements.
  • Department of Health wine label requirements.
  • Liquor Products Act 60 of 1989.
• Knowledge of labelling requirements for South African wine intended for export to the EU, UK, USA, Canada, China, and African countries.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrates initiative, is target-driven, and self-motivated.
• A team player with a strong work ethic.
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.

• Provide an in-house graphic and packaging design service.
• Extend and refresh existing designs to accommodate client requirements.
• Liaise with sales representatives and clients regarding design concepts and packaging needs.
• Prepare artwork for all certified wines for relevant certification approvals.
• Create DTP artwork in vector format for print and supply to vendors; sign off final proofs.
• Check and approve all dry goods artwork (labels, cartons, screwcaps, etc.) for the company’s Stellenbosch bottlings.
• Sign off on the first print run at press and the first bottle on the production line as final packaging approval.
• Supply artwork for outer carton stickers, if required.
• Provide artwork in the correct format to facilitate the SAGE process.
• Redesign artwork for improved production efficiency and/or cost reduction.
• Assist clients with own-brand packaging design, including supporting documents and applications for packaging approval from SAWIS and other certification bodies.
• Assist with mock-up labels and samples for tenders as required by sales representatives or clients, meeting specified deadlines.

• Obtain quotes for dry goods when necessary.
• Maintain files on dry goods for reference and audit purposes.
• Confirm all label certifications (Fairtrade, SAWIS, Organic, or any other relevant standards).
• Verify dry goods for accuracy upon delivery
• Test and approve all new supplier products in accordance with the NPD Trial Procedure, in collaboration with relevant departments.
• Assist in resolving quality control issues related to supplier quality or service.
• Liaise with dry goods suppliers to ensure all requirements are met.

• Manage new projects through to first production, ensuring all requirements are fulfilled.
• Ensure full NPD trials are completed prior to first production and that all trial records are accurately maintained.

• Check SAGE specifications for completeness and accuracy prior to production.
• Prepare mock-up samples of products for the production line.
• Sign off on the first bottle from the production line.

• Ensure all procedures and documentation adhere to QMS standards as per company compliance requirements.
• Follow QMS protocols as outlined by WMS procedures.
• Liaise with SAWIS, DAFF, and the Wine Standards Board regarding wine laws, mandatory label information, and legislative updates.

• Comply with Health and Safety regulations and maintain housekeeping standards.

• Perform general administrative duties for the NPD department as required.

• Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 17:00