R&D Packaging Manager

An opportunity to work for an iconic group which has featured on The Sunday Times’ “100 Best Companies to Work For”. This long-established company which is on the rise is looking to expand its in-house packaging team. Your role as R&D Packaging Manager will be to implement packaging solutions that support and drive NPD & EPD portfolios in line with R&D KPIs, the company’s vision and future picture. You will lead the testing and development of these packaging solutions pre transition into operations (in-house or at a 3rd party co-packer) and will support technical specification development and technical problem solving/continuous improvement.

We are looking for an experienced packaging professional with strong project management skills and who pays meticulous attention to detail. Success in this role will require an ability to shape and lead packaging initiatives and technical work, and an ability to work alongside multiple stakeholders with a collaborative/cross functional manner.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Drive packaging development projects into implementation/delivery to support the product development pipeline (innovation and renovation).
• Develop packaging solutions from post scoping/initial feasibility work – including management of factory trials and implementation, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations /food contact legislation.
• Ensure packaging specifications are signed off both internally and with suppliers prior to first production to ensure performance criteria are locked down and agreed.
• Provide technical packaging expertise for NPD/EPD projects as well as the wider business when required.
• Develop external network of packaging suppliers, 3rd party co-packers and manufacturers (working in partnership with co-manufacturing) to support R&D and the wider business.
• Build a strong internal network across the Commercial, Brand, Finance & Ops teams
• Ensure packaging specifications are signed off both internally and with suppliers prior to first production to ensure performance criteria are locked down and agreed.
• Minimise the environmental impact of products through careful consideration and selection of packaging materials and suppliers.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for operations as required
• Support Marketing, Sales and wider business with any packaging related enquiries and when required accompany with visits to key customers.
• Influence and help shape the long-term direction of R&D including targets, KPI’s and the R&D lab.
• Line management of up to 4 direct reports