Packaging & Deployment Engineers

HSB | UK and Ireland; Warrington; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging innovation firm in the UK seeks a Group Packaging Innovation Manager to spearhead the development of sustainable and innovative packaging solutions. The role involves collaborating with multiple teams to create functional and visually appealing packaging while tracking market trends. Ideal candidates should have a degree in a relevant field and substantial experience in food packaging development and compliance. A strong focus on project management, communication, and innovation is essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of experience in packaging development or technology, preferably in food.
• Deep understanding of food-packaging materials such as flexibles and rigid plastics.
• Hands-on experience with packaging lines and production machinery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of innovative packaging solutions to enhance performance.
• Collaborate with various teams to ensure ideas are functional and visually appealing.
• Monitor trends in sustainability and consumer behavior to guide packaging strategies.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Innovation in packaging

Education

Degree in Packaging Technology, Materials Science, Food Science, or Engineering

Job description

This is a brand new role for a Group Packaging Innovation Manager—working in a truly innovative ambient category with plenty of scope for both your development and packaging innovation. You will be the driving force behind the future of food packaging across the entire group. If it’s new, clever, sustainable or game‑changing, you’ll be leading the charge. From breakthrough materials to smarter, greener designs, this role shapes packaging that works brilliantly, looks sharp, and elevates the brand every step of the way.

What you’ll actually be doing

• Spearhead the discovery and development of innovative packaging solutions that boost performance, cut environmental impact and delight consumers.
• Hunt down new materials, technologies and formats, working with suppliers, start‑ups and innovators to assess feasibility, build prototypes and run smart trials.
• Track trends in sustainability, consumer behaviour, design and regulation, then turn those insights into opportunities for Category Leadership Teams and other key players.
• Shape packaging concepts from scratch, working hand‑in‑hand with Development, Marketing, R&D, Operations, Technical, SHE and Procurement to make sure ideas look good and actually work.
• Benchmark best practice, lead projects from concept to launch and keep everything moving at pace.

Qualifications

• Degree in Packaging Technology, Materials Science, Food Science, Engineering or a similar discipline.
• 3‑5+ years’ experience in packaging development/technology (food experience strongly preferred).
• Deep understanding of food‑packaging materials: flexibles, paperboard, rigid plastics, barrier systems, MAP, etc.
• Solid grasp of food safety, hygiene and packaging compliance (EPR, PPT, BRCGS, FCM Regulations).
• Hands‑on experience with packaging lines and production machinery.
• Top‑tier project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Clear communicator—written and verbal—with strong influencing skills and a bias for action.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.