Packaging Development Manager

About the Company and Role

This opportunity is with a reputable leader in the food manufacturing sector, known for their diverse portfolio encompassing condiments and flour-based products. As they expand their focus on product innovation, quality assurance, and manufacturing efficiency, they seek an experienced Packaging Development Manager to spearhead their packaging initiatives from initial concept to commercial launch.

Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee structural packaging design and development for condiments and pasta product lines.
• Convert product and consumer insights into effective, practical packaging solutions.
• Drive innovation in packaging, optimize materials, and lead cost-saving engineering efforts.
• Manage stability assessments, production trials, and rollouts of new packaging formats.
• Assess packaging materials, technologies, and vendor capabilities to ensure high standards.
• Collaborate closely with suppliers to refine technical specifications, enhance quality, and improve manufacturing processes.
• Coordinate with Marketing teams on packaging artwork, color accuracy, and execution strategies.
• Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities while maintaining quality and product integrity.
• Develop comprehensive packaging specifications, maintain technical documentation, and uphold quality standards.
• Ensure all packaging complies with applicable regulatory and legal requirements.
• Keep abreast of the latest developments, materials, and trends in packaging technology and the industry.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum eight years of relevant experience within multinational or leading food manufacturing corporations.
• At least five years specializing in packaging development within condiments or related food categories.
• Proficient knowledge of packaging materials, structural design, testing methodologies, and industrial implementation.
• Proven track record in managing packaging projects from concept through production trials to full commercial introduction.
• Expertise in supplier development and conducting thorough technical evaluations.
• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Strong skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership.

Additional Information

The ideal candidate combines creativity with practical application, ensuring that packaging designs not only captivate consumers but are also robust enough for production lines, protect the product effectively, fulfill regulatory standards, and are economically viable.