Packaging Manager

Key Responsibilities:

• Packaging Operations Management: Oversee the day-to-day packaging operations, ensuring all packaging processes are executed smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

• Team Leadership & Development: Lead, manage, and train the packaging team to meet production goals, quality standards, and deadlines. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and safety.

• Packaging Design & Optimization: Collaborate with engineering, R&D, and design teams to develop and optimize packaging solutions that meet product, cost, sustainability, and regulatory requirements.

• Cost Management: Monitor and control packaging-related expenses. Implement cost-saving initiatives, including optimizing material usage, reducing waste, and improving process efficiencies.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Drive sustainability efforts in packaging by sourcing eco-friendly materials, reducing packaging waste, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and company sustainability goals.

• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure all packaging materials and processes comply with industry standards, regulations, and company specifications. Maintain strict adherence to quality control protocols.

• Supply Chain Coordination: Work closely with logistics and supply chain teams to optimize packaging for transportation and storage, ensuring timely delivery and reducing shipping costs.

• Supplier Management: Manage relationships with packaging suppliers, negotiate contracts, and ensure the timely procurement of materials. Evaluate and monitor supplier performance to ensure the quality of packaging materials.

• Packaging Innovation: Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices. Lead efforts to integrate innovative packaging solutions to enhance product presentation, user experience, and sustainability.

• Project Management: Lead packaging-related projects from concept to implementation, ensuring timely execution, budget adherence, and performance targets.

• Safety & Training: Ensure that the packaging team follows safety protocols, conducts regular safety training, and complies with OSHA and other relevant safety regulations.

• Performance Metrics & Reporting: Track and analyze packaging performance metrics (e.g., packaging cost per unit, throughput, waste reduction) and provide regular reports to senior management.

• Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams: Partner with product development, marketing, and quality control teams to ensure packaging aligns with product requirements and brand guidelines.

Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in packaging management or a related field, with at least 2-3 years in a leadership role.

• Strong understanding of packaging materials, design principles, production processes, and packaging equipment.

• Proven experience in leading teams and managing cross-functional projects.

• Experience with packaging design software (e.g., ArtiosCAD, SolidWorks, or similar tools).

• In-depth knowledge of packaging regulations and compliance standards (e.g., FDA, ISO, ASTM).

• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, cost management, and cost-saving initiatives.

• Knowledge of sustainable packaging practices and environmental regulations.

• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters degree in Packaging Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related field.

• Certification in packaging, such as Certified Packaging Professional (CPP).

• Experience with automated packaging systems and robotics.

• Familiarity with international packaging requirements and global distribution.

• Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position, with some flexibility in working hours depending on production schedules.

• Occasional travel to supplier sites, manufacturing facilities, or distribution centers.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing or warehouse environment with exposure to equipment, noise, and temperature variations.

• Some physical activity required, such as walking, standing, and lifting light materials.