Introduction
Unipharma is seeking a highly skilled Senior DTP Designer to join our team, focusing on packaging design for scheduled medicinal products. This is a specialised role that requires both technical proficiency and an in-depth understanding of regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in delivering high-quality, accurate packaging artwork within a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Duties & Responsibilities
About the RoleOur Unipharma product portfolio plays a vital role in our business, with projected sales exceeding R1,15 billion and group profits over R560 million for FY26. With more than 320 product lines, our team is responsible for ensuring all packaging artwork is delivered on time and to the highest standard. In FY25 alone, on average a 100 artwork components were completed on a monthly basis and over 500 could be open at any specific time.
Accurate and timely artwork is critical. Errors can result in costly product recalls, stock losses, and significant write-offs. Packaging for scheduled medicines is governed by strict regulatory standards and must align with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). As such, attention to detail, reliability, and accountability are essential.
Key Responsibilities- Interpret briefs and deliver artwork that meets objectives and aligns with brand guidelines
- Create and manage packaging artwork from concept to final print and production
- Source and incorporate images as required
- Develop product renders and roll out artwork across all required formats
- Ensure all designs are consistent with established style guides and CI (Corporate Identity)
- Create dielines and ensure technical accuracy
- Liaise with third-party vendors, including printers and packaging suppliers
- Approve print proofs, ensuring colour accuracy and production fidelity
- Deliver accurate artwork aligned with our 18-month planning cycle
- Meet tight deadlines without compromising quality
- Collaborate closely with internal teams (Traffic, Client Services, Creative) and clients to ensure workflow is efficient and the creative brief is met
- Proactively communicate with the print production team to manage project timelines and outputs
Desired Experience & Qualification
Qualifications and Experience:- 3 year diploma in Graphic Design
- Essential: Min CC (Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Adobe Acrobat)
- Essential: Min 3 - 5 years’ experience in packaging design
- Desirable: Experience in DTP
Skills, Abilities and Job Related Knowledge:- A senior-level designer with extensive DTP experience, particularly in pharmaceutical or FMCG packaging
- Highly organised with excellent multitasking and time management skills
- Strong communicator who can manage incoming and outgoing artwork, supplier liaison, and team coordination
- Ability to maintain brand consistency across multiple product lines
- A calm, solutions-driven mindset, especially when working under pressure or responding to structural changes within the company
- Repro & printing experience
Essential Competencies:- Applying Expertise and Technology
- Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations
- Presenting and Communicating Information
- Creating and Innovating
- Planning and Organising
- Working with People
