Senior Manager, Barrier Materials & Packaging Innovation

Huhtamaki; Hämeenlinnan seutukunta; Hybrid; EUR 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Meaningful work

Development opportunities

Sustainability focus

Job summary

Huhtamaki is seeking an experienced Senior Manager of Material Science & Barrier Technologies to shape and lead the barrier technology roadmap for fiber-based packaging. You will drive commercialization from concept to scale, align material science with fiber-forming tech, and build strategic partnerships globally.

The role requires 10+ years in barrier materials with strong expertise in coatings, laminations, and barrier chemistries, plus excellent communication in English.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Emulsion Chemistry, Polymer Science, Surface Chemistry, Dispersion Chemistry, Coating Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Ideally 10+ years of industrial experience in barrier materials, coatings, laminations, or related technologies.
• Proven expertise in fiber-based packaging barriers, coating formulations, barrier chemistries, and application technologies.
• Strong experience designing, executing, and interpreting laboratory, pilot, and production trials.
• Deep knowledge of barrier characterization methods, including WVTR, OTR, and material performance testing.
• Fluent English and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the fiber and barrier technology roadmap across paperboard and molded fiber platforms.
• Translate technology roadmaps into commercial development projects that support growth.
• Ensure alignment between material science activities and fiber-forming technology development.
• Scout, assess, and develop emerging fiber and barrier technologies and strategic partnerships.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement innovative coating, lamination, and surface barrier solutions.
• Build and manage relationships with suppliers, research institutions, and technology partners globally.
• Lead material development projects from concept through industrial implementation.
• Plan and execute laboratory, pilot, and production-scale trials, translating results into actionable development plans.
• Act as the subject matter expert in barrier performance, testing methodologies, and material analytics.
• Drive invention creation, patent generation, and IP development.
• Establish robust testing protocols and ensure scientific rigor in material evaluation.
• Coach colleagues, share technical expertise, and build organizational capability.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure integrated development of materials, structures, and manufacturing processes.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment, turning complex business challenges into practical innovation programs.

Skills

Fluent English

Excellent communication

Independent project leadership

Strategic thinking

Collaboration across functions

Education

MSc or PhD in Emulsion Chemistry, Polymer Science, Surface Chemistry, or related

Job description

Huhtamaki is seeking an experienced Senior Manager of Material Science & Barrier Technologies to shape and lead the barrier technology roadmap for fiber-based packaging. You will drive commercialization from concept to scale, align material science with fiber-forming tech, and build strategic partnerships globally.

The role requires 10+ years in barrier materials with strong expertise in coatings, laminations, and barrier chemistries, plus excellent communication in English.