Assistant Packaging Manager

About us

Harmless Harvest is a revolutionary food and beverage company proving that sustainable practices can thrive in the industry. We prioritize the well-being of all stakeholders, from the environment and farmers to our customers. This commitment has led Harmless Harvest Coconut Water to become a national leader in the category, achieved in record time. We pioneered the world's first sustainably harvested, organic coconut water. Combining cutting-edge science with traditional farming methods, we create products that deliver the purest, most ethical coconut water available.

In this position you will…

… direct packaging technical governance to ensure all materials and development activities meet our rigorous quality, safety, and commercial standards. As the key technical link between internal teams (TH&US) and external partners (co-manufacturers, suppliers), you will drive packaging innovation, risk management, and supplier compliance. Your work will directly support our operational excellence, continuous improvement, and sustainable growth across the entire packaging value chain.

You will be responsible for…

1. Packaging Development & Innovation

• Lead the full lifecycle of NPD packaging, from initial concept and feasibility to commercialization and post-launch monitoring.
• Drive strategic packaging initiatives focused on sustainability, cost optimization, operational efficiency, and innovation.

2. Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all packaging materials and processes meet strict internal standards, customer requirements, and regulatory food safety expectations.
• Lead technical risk assessments to guarantee packaging integrity, product protection, and business continuity.
• Serve on the food safety team to troubleshoot issues, conduct root cause analysis, and execute corrective/preventive actions.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, reporting, and change management records.

3. Supplier & Partner Management

• Act as the primary technical bridge connecting HHT, HHUS, co-manufacturers, and external suppliers.
• Oversee supplier qualification programs, technical assessments, audits, and performance tracking.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Operations, QA/QS, R&D, Procurement, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless alignment and execution of all packaging priorities.

You will require the following qualifications and skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Packaging Science, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of experience in a similar R&D, product development, or technical role within the food and beverage industry, preferably with exposure to food service, RTE, or UHT products.
• Strong technical background in packaging material science, manufacturing, and food compatibility.
• Proven technical expertise in full-cycle packaging development, including material selection, design, testing, line trials, validation, and commercialization.
• In-depth knowledge of regulatory compliance, food safety and packaging safety standards (GHP, HACCP, FSSC 22000, BRCGS Packaging Materials, and applicable food contact regulations).
• Solid background in supplier governance, including technical audits, specification management, and continuous performance improvement.
• Strong leadership skills with dedication to driving and achieving results.
• Teamworking & Collaboration ability
• Professional proficiency in English (for leadership reporting and business approach)
• Ability to leverage the Microsoft 365 suite to synthesize the quality data into actionable business insights