Kraft Paper R&D Leader — Innovation & Strategy

Mondi plc; Österreich; On-site; EUR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Mondi plc is seeking a Head of R&D Kraft Paper in Austria to shape the future of sustainable paper-based packaging by driving innovation and aligning technical excellence with business needs across our global network.

You will define the product innovation strategy for Kraft Paper, lead development of new grades and applications, and build partnerships with customers, universities, and research institutes to accelerate value creation. Travel up to 50% is expected.

Qualifications

• University degree in Paper Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related technical discipline.
• 5+ years in R&D, product development or a leadership role, preferably in paper/packaging manufacturing.
• Proven track record in leading complex R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and innovative mindset.
• Willingness to travel up to 50%.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the product innovation strategy for Kraft Paper and support cross-segment projects.
• Lead development of new paper grades and applications for strategic markets.
• Increase use of internally produced papers in R&D projects across the value chain.
• Build partnerships with customers, suppliers, universities and labs to accelerate innovation.
• Collaborate with R&D, Operations and Sales to translate ideas into commercial solutions.
• Lead and develop the Kraft Paper R&D organization across Austria, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and possibly Canada.
• Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing across sites and functions.

Skills

Leadership

R&D

Analytical thinking

Creative thinking

Problem solving

Open-mindedness

Education

University degree in Paper Science

Job description

Mondi plc is seeking a Head of R&D Kraft Paper in Austria to shape the future of sustainable paper-based packaging by driving innovation and aligning technical excellence with business needs across our global network.

You will define the product innovation strategy for Kraft Paper, lead development of new grades and applications, and build partnerships with customers, universities, and research institutes to accelerate value creation. Travel up to 50% is expected.