UK Packaging Lead

A food specialist is looking for a solutions-focused senior level packaging technologist to join their highly innovative team.

This well-known company is on the search for an experienced packaging technologist strong in sustainability, ideally with a background in the food or beverages industry.

This role is part of the NPD department. The job holder will lead and deliver the following ambitious plans for the UK Market:

1. Deliver by trialling and support launches of Packaging Development and Innovation programme
2. Trial and launch UK Sustainable Packaging across all UK sites where relevant
3. Trial new packing technologies
4. Continuous quality support & optimisation of packing efficiency across the UK business

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Packaging Development & Innovation programme:

• Design the Packaging activity road map and lead the delivery of the Innovation & NPD packaging related plans.
• Ensure legal compliance and accurate technical data are provided for all 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, manufacturing and palletisation guidelines, post implementation reviews.

Sustainable Packaging Strategy:

• Support the design and lead the Packaging Sustainability programme
• 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 which 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
• Ensure technical risk assessments are completed for all packaging related changes and provide guidance on how to fully mitigate potential risks.
• Provide packaging expertise and leadership to Production & Engineering team with troubleshooting and manufacturing efficiency improvement initiatives.

SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in an FMCG packaging management role (Food or Beverage ideal)
• 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 of sustainable packaging materials would be an advantage.
• Excellent Microsoft Office skills (excel and word)
• Attention to detail and ability to work to tight deadlines.
• Ability to multi-task and work under pressure
• Prioritisation and project management
• Excellent communication skills both internally and externally, representing the Business at external events & providing immediate expertise and authority in the expert field of packaging & sustainability
• Pro-active self-starter with a positive, can-do attitude, enthusiasm, high energy levels, methodical and a tenacious commitment to work.