The parent company to a number of iconic British brands has an opportunity for a packaging expert to lead and drive the overall R&D packaging agenda. The objective of this Lead R&D Packaging Manager role will be to set the vision for the team and support/lead on both innovation and delivery aligned to the company’s future picture and strategic approaches.
Responsibilities:
1. Support the Head of R&D in setting the packing direction and vision for the team
2. Develop the R&D packaging team (across innovation, implementation, and specifications management to support short, medium, and long-term ambitions)
3. Direct responsibility for 2 R&D Packaging Managers and 5-6 technologists
4. Work across the front-end innovation/R&D interface to ensure development of a robust pipeline of concepts and supporting technologies
5. Influence 2-3 year R&D pipeline and beyond through technical knowledge and consumer insight to ensure products continue to engage and excite consumers
6. Develop approaches for technology scouting, material advancements, and novel concepts, translating them into opportunities for product pipelines using open innovation and internal capability development
7. Lead discovery phase projects and/or implementation projects as required
8. Provide technical packaging expertise for NPD/EPD projects and the wider business when needed
9. Act as packaging innovation lead within R&D and the wider business, serving as a point of contact for external partners
10. Build a strong internal network across Commercial, Brand, Finance & Ops teams
11. Develop external networks of packaging suppliers, insight & innovation partners, and 3rd-party copackers and manufacturers to support R&D and the wider business
12. Lead packaging exploration projects to identify consumer-focused opportunities for long-term development in both NPD & EPD
13. Run packaging-related workshops with internal and external input to generate ideas for potential concepts
14. Develop packaging solutions from initial concept through material and supplier selection, factory trials, and implementation, ensuring compliance with food contact legislation
15. Identify product and packaging opportunities that will deliver profitable growth in new categories and with new consumers
16. Support Marketing, Sales, and wider business with packaging-related inquiries, including visits to key customers when required
17. Influence and help shape the long-term direction of R&D, including targets, KPIs, and the R&D lab
We are looking for a standout people manager who can demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively across multiple stakeholders. You should have strong project management skills and the capability to shape and lead packaging initiatives and technical work.
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