Zandi Bongiwe

Detail-oriented Artwork Packaging, NPD, and Quality Control with experience in the food manufacturing industry, specialising in packaging artwork management, South African food labelling compliance, packaging specifications, and quality assurance. Skilled in coordinating artwork approvals, verifying packaging against regulatory requirements, managing die-lines and packaging specifications, and supporting new product development from concept to production. Experienced in conducting quality control inspections, ensuring FSMS compliance, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver accurate, compliant, and production-ready packaging solutions.

Artwork Packaging and NPD Technologist at Atlantis Seafood (2025-02 – Present)

• Coordinate packaging artwork from concept to final approval, ensuring production-ready files.
• Verify artwork against South African food labelling regulations and customer requirements.
• Review and approve packaging specifications, die-lines, and colour standards before production.
• Liaise with design, procurement, production, and QA teams to implement artwork changes accurately.
• Support new product development by preparing and maintaining packaging documentation and product specifications.
• Proofread artwork to ensure the accuracy of ingredient lists, allergen declarations, nutritional information, net mass, and species names.
• Conduct packaging verification upon receipt to confirm compliance with approved artwork and specifications.
• Maintain artwork, specification, and document control in line with FSMS requirements.
• Resolve artwork and packaging discrepancies to minimise production delays and compliance risks.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance packaging accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and maintain product specifications for new products, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Liaise with packaging suppliers to source and coordinate packaging materials for new product launches.
• Coordinate box fittings and packaging trials to verify product fit, functionality, and production suitability before approval.
• Collaborate closely with designers and clients to develop and refine packaging artwork for new product launches, ensuring designs meet brand, customer, and regulatory requirements.

Quality Control at Pie in the sky bakery (2024-06 – 2025-01)

• Assisted quality control team in conducting regular quality control checks on raw materials, ingredients, and finished products.
• Conducted sensory evaluations of food products to assess quality and texture.
• Assisted in the implementation of quality control procedures and protocols.
• Maintained quality control records and documentation.
• Gained hands-on experience with food safety and quality control regulations and standards (e.g. HACCP, GMP).
• Assisted in the development and launch of new product, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

Diploma in Food Technology – Cape Peninsula University of Technology (2021 – 2024)