Introduction to the VKB Group

The VKB Group is an agricultural company, providing support to farmers and producing straight-from-the farm-foods for consumers. Apart from the various consumer brands, the VKB Group is also represented by its regional brands: VKB, GWK and NTK. Our roots are firmly planted in agriculture with farming at our core, continuously growing and evolving throughout the years.

Starting with providing everything needed on the farm to produce food, we now also operate in all areas of the food supply chain: processing, logistics, and national and global market channels.

This “house of brands” we’ve established with the support of our farmer shareholders is the foundation for building the agribusiness of the future

Purpose of the Role

The Packaging Manager (Input Retail) is responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for packaging material within VKB’s Input Retail division. The role ensures that packaging solutions meet customer and business needs while driving sales growth, managing costs, and building strong relationships with farmers, suppliers, and internal branches.

Requirements

• Grade 12 or NQF 4 as minimum requirement
• National Diploma or Degree in Marketing/Business/Communications will be an advantage
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in marketing or sales of packaging material
• Proven track record in agricultural input retail or related field will be an advantage
• Computer literate (MS Office essential; marketing tools advantageous)
• Proficiency in Afrikaans and English
• Clear criminal record
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively within the region

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and implement regional marketing campaigns for packaging products.
• Promote packaging material to farmers and retail customers, ensuring product suitability and quality.
• Support Input Retail branches with in-store promotions, product activations, and seasonal marketing activities.
• Monitor and analyse regional market trends, customer demand, and competitor activity.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to secure quality packaging material at competitive prices.
• Conduct regular customer visits and farmer days to strengthen client relationships and drive sales.
• Provide accurate and timely feedback to management on sales performance, stock movement, and customer needs.
• Ensure packaging budgets are managed effectively and cost controls are implemented.
• Collaborate with internal departments to align packaging initiatives with overall business strategy.
• Maintain high standards of customer service and resolve queries or claims efficiently.
• Oversee marketing stock, promotional materials, and branding for packaging across the region.
• Complete required reports and administration related to marketing and sales.
• Stay updated on industry developments and participate in training and skills development activities.

Skills Required

• Strong knowledge of packaging material and related products
• Excellent communication (written and verbal)
• Relationship-building and networking skills
• Negotiation and influencing ability
• Creative problem-solving and adaptability
• Planning and organising skills
• Financial and business acumen
• Customer service orientation
• Teamwork and collaboration

At VKB, we live by our values:
Humble – we stay grounded and open to learning
Hungry – we’re driven to grow and succeed
Smart – we work with insight and creativity
Bold – we take initiative and make things happen
Team Players – we win together

And here’s more:

• You’ll work with passionate people who care about farmers and communities 💚
• No two days are ever the same—one day you’re on the road, the next you’re brainstorming fresh ideas
• You’ll get to flex both your creative and business-savvy muscles 🎨📊
• You’ll make a real impact in an industry that feeds the nation 🍞
• PLUS… you’ll get to call Louis Trichardt home—where mountain views, mopane trees, and legendary avocados 🥑 are part of everyday life!

• The company can expire jobs at any time at their own discretion.
• VKB Group and/or its subsidiary companies will use any personal data collected through the job opportunities section of this website for recruitment purposes only and, should your application be successful, for purposes connected with your employment.
• VKB Group is an equal opportunity employer. VKB Group’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process aligned to VKB Group’s Employment Equity & Transformation Strategy. VKB Group actively supports the recruitment of People with Disabilities
• Things to take note of when applying through our Career Portal.
• Use Google Chrome when accessing the portal
• Clear copy of your CV in either PDF or Word
• The CV should not have handwriting on the document

• NB! Only Submit your CV on the Upload CV section of the application form and not a PDF that includes other documents such as ID, Driver’s License and other documents. The application form will make provision for the candidate to upload supporting documents.
• When uploading profile picture, make sure the minimum size uploaded is 300 x 300px