Senior Manager, Material Science & Barrier Technologies

Huhtamaki Group; Espoo, Hämeenlinnan seutukunta; Hybrid; EUR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Huhtamaki seeks a Senior Manager, Material Science & Barrier Technologies to shape fiber-based barrier packaging from concept to commercialization. Based in Espoo or Hämeenlinna with one remote day per week, you will lead the barrier technology roadmap and build partnerships globally.

You will run lab, pilot and scaling trials, drive IP, and mentor teams while translating complex science into practical programs that support sustainable packaging innovations.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD required in a related discipline.
• Experience in barrier materials, coatings, laminations or related technologies.
• Strong track record with lab, pilot and production trials.
• Excellent communication and collaboration across functions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the fiber and barrier technology roadmap across paperboard and molded fiber platforms.
• Translate roadmaps into commercial development projects for growth.
• Coordinate laboratory, pilot and production-scale trials and translate results into action plans.
• Drive invention creation, IP development and robust material evaluation protocols.
• Drive invention creation, patent generation and IP development; establish robust testing protocols.

Skills

Barrier materials

Coatings

Laminations

Laboratory trials

Communication skills

English fluency

Education

MSc or PhD in Emulsion Chemistry, Polymer Science, Surface Chemistry, Dispersion Chemistry, Coating Chemistry

Tools

WVTR testing

OTR testing

Material analytics

Job description

**Senior Manager, Material Science & Barrier Technologies** Huhtamaki currently has a fantastic opportunity for an experienced material innovation professional to join our Foodservice Packaging segment as a **Senior Manager, Material Science & Barrier Technologies**. In this role, you will help shape the future of fiber-based barrier packaging solutions at Huhtamaki, driving innovation from concept through to commercialization. Reporting to the Head of Material Innovation, you will lead the execution of our barrier technology roadmap, identify and develop emerging technologies, build strategic partnerships, and support the development of next-generation sustainable packaging solutions. **Where You'll Be** You'll be based at either of our sites in Espoo or Hämeenlinna, Finland, with one remote working day per week**.****What You'll Do** * Lead the fiber and barrier technology roadmap across paperboard and molded fiber platforms.* Translate technology roadmaps into commercial development projects that support short and mid-term 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 intellectual property 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. **What You'll Bring** * 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, specialty chemicals, 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.* Experience working with suppliers, converters, and external innovation partners.* Demonstrated ability to lead projects independently and make sound technical decisions.* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.* The ability to take ownership and drive results independently.* Capable of building strong relationships across functions and disciplines.* Ability to balance strategic thinking with experimental execution.* Fluent English. **What We Offer** * A meaningful job: At Huhtamaki, we believe in protecting food, people and the planet. Our innovative and transformative solutions touch the daily lives of people everywhere.* Development opportunities: We care for each other – and want to see our talent thrive and develop.* Responsible employer: Sustainability is embedded in everything we do. We believe diverse teams fuel innovation. We invest in fostering an environment where everyone is safe both psychologically and physically and where diversity and inclusion are promoted through day-to-day behaviors, reinforced by our policies and practices. If you have the required skills and experience, please apply prior to the deadline of **Thursday 29th October.**