Innovation Manager

Greaves Recruitment Solutions; South Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Greaves Recruitment Solutions is seeking an Innovations Manager to lead the New Product Development function for a bespoke flexographic printing and flexible packaging manufacturer in Yorkshire. The role focuses on spotting trends, generating ideas, and turning concepts into commercially successful packaging solutions.

You will work with customers, suppliers and internal teams to assess feasibility, drive innovative packaging concepts and manage projects from concept through to launch, with a

Qualifications

• Experience in flexible packaging or related manufacturing environment.
• Ability to generate ideas and convert concepts into commercial products.
• Proven skills in concept development, visualization and presenting ideas.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the NPD team.
• Drive generation and development of innovative packaging concepts and solutions.
• Identify trends and convert them into product opportunities.
• Create and communicate ideas using sketches, mock-ups, presentations and AI-assisted tools.
• Collaborate with internal teams to assess feasibility and viability of new concepts.
• Work with customers, suppliers and partners to explore new technologies and materials.
• Own development projects from concept to trials and launch.
• Support sustainable, commercially viable packaging solutions.

Skills

Packaging development

Creative mindset

Concept visualization

Cross-functional leadership

AI tools usage

Communication

Collaboration

Project leadership

Innovative thinking

Tools

AI tools

Job description

Company profile:

A bespoke Flexographic printing and Flexible Packaging Manufacturer that supply packaging solutions to a wide range of industries. They are now looking for an Innovations Manager to lead their New Product Development function and help shape the future of the business.

Location: Yorkshire

Role:

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys spotting trends, generating new ideas and transforming concepts into commercially successful products. You'll work closely with customers, suppliers and internal teams to identify opportunities, develop innovative solutions and bring new products to market.

The successful individual will be naturally curious, enjoys challenging conventional thinking and can combine creativity with practical problem-solving.

Expectations:

• Lead and develop the NPD team.
• Drive the generation and development of innovative packaging concepts and solutions.
• Identify emerging consumer, market and technology trends and convert them into product opportunities.
• Create and communicate innovative ideas using sketches, mock-ups, presentations and AI-assisted tools.
• Work with Technical, Operations, Commercial and Supply Chain teams to assess the feasibility and viability of new concepts.
• Collaborate with customers, suppliers and innovation partners to explore new technologies, materials and applications.
• Take ownership of development projects from concept through feasibility assessment, trials and commercial launch.
• Support the delivery of sustainable and commercially successful packaging solutions that align with customer and market needs.

What they are looking For:

• Experience within flexible packaging, packaging development or a related manufacturing environment.
• A creative mindset with the confidence to challenge conventional approaches and explore new possibilities.
• Strong concept development, visualisation and presentation skills.
• An interest in consumer trends, emerging technologies and future market opportunities.
• Confidence using AI and digital tools to support idea generation, concept development and innovation.
• Strong communication, influencing and collaboration skills.
• Experience leading projects and coordinating cross-functional teams.
• A proactive, self-motivated approach with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Creating, innovating and turning ideas into reality

This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of packaging within a business that values creativity, innovation and new ideas. You'll have the freedom to explore emerging technologies, develop breakthrough concepts and work with a talented team to bring innovative solutions to market.

Salary: Up to £60,000