Food Packaging Development Technologist

A leading food manufacturer that operates across the continent has an opening within its Innovation and NPD department.  As Packaging Technologist, you will lead and deliver the following ambitious plans for the UK Market and support cross-transversal projects for countries in Europe:

Packaging Development & Innovation programme:

• Design the Packaging activity road map and lead the delivery of the Innovation & NPD packaging related plans.
• Ensure legal compliance for waste and accurate technical data (spec) are provided for all NEW packaging materials.
• Champion the NPD stage & gate process on all aspects of Packaging development (Innovation, Novation & Renovation), hence ensuring coordination of factory trials, creation of packaging specifications for the factory, & support to the team for product launches.
• Support the artwork and packaging development process through technologists and Artwork team and NEW palletisation guidelines, post implementation reviews.

Sustainable Packaging Strategy:

• Support the design and lead the Packaging Sustainability programme, which will form part of the wider group sustainable packaging strategy.
• Attend relevant Packaging and Sustainability Trade shows & relevant Expert events to stay ahead of the challenges facing the industry and planet
• Translate external environmental sustainability factors affecting the packaging agenda in recommendations that will help the business to stay on track with peer group across the market.

Recommendation and introduction of new packing technologies:

• Scout for new packing technologies
• Develop partnership with equipment and packing materials suppliers and manufacturers
• Establish connection with external networks to bring in new ideas, technology and solutions

Continuous support & optimisation of packing efficiency across the business manufacturing sites:

• Continually support the performance optimisation of packaging material machinability and packing technology following recent product launches (EPD and NPD) by managing the partnership with existing and new suppliers
• Complete technical risk assessments for all packaging related changes and provide guidance on how to fully mitigate potential risks. 1st delivery checks and generate SOP and settings to run new films.
• Provide packaging expertise and leadership to Production & Engineering team with troubleshooting and manufacturing efficiency improvement initiatives.

Experience Required:

• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in an FMCG packaging management role (Food or Beverage preferable).
• Expertise in all packaging related areas: material properties & machinability (films, laminates, corrugate), packing technologies (vacuum forming, VFFS, heat sealing), printing processes, handling of dry goods, distribution, bulk BtoB.
• Experience working within an entrepreneurial, fast-paced & innovative organisation.
• Experience of sustainable packaging materials would be an advantage.

If you are a pro-active self-starter with a positive, can-do attitude, enthusiasm, high energy levels, methodical and a tenacious commitment to work, then we would love to hear from you.