Packaging Development Leader — Innovation & Sustainability

True North Talent Limited; Cumbernauld; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working arrangement

Performance-related bonus

Pension contribution

Generous holiday entitlement

Healthcare cash plan

Life assurance

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

True North Talent Limited is recruiting a Head of Packaging Development to lead the packaging function across a diverse FMCG portfolio. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery from concept to market launch, driving innovation, sustainability, and cost optimisation.

You will own the packaging development agenda, partnering with R&D, Procurement, and Manufacturing to deliver high-impact packaging solutions that meet regulatory and quality standards while supporting growth and

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in Packaging Technology, Engineering, Food Science, or related discipline.
• Significant packaging development experience within FMCG (beverages, food or consumer products).
• Proven experience leading and developing technical packaging teams.
• Strong knowledge of materials (PET, glass, aluminium), closures, labels and secondary packaging.
• Experience delivering packaging projects from concept through to market launch.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing packaging team.
• Shape and deliver the packaging strategy across innovation, sustainability, and supply continuity initiatives.
• Collaborate with R&D, Procurement, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Marketing to commercialise packaging solutions.
• Drive sustainability initiatives and compliance with UK/EU packaging regulations and food-contact legislation.
• Build relationships with suppliers, external partners, and industry bodies.

Skills

Packaging leadership

Team leadership

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Packaging development

Commercial awareness

Education

Degree in Packaging Technology / Engineering / Food Science

Tools

Packaging PLM systems

Job description

True North Talent Limited is recruiting a Head of Packaging Development to lead the packaging function across a diverse FMCG portfolio. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery from concept to market launch, driving innovation, sustainability, and cost optimisation.

You will own the packaging development agenda, partnering with R&D, Procurement, and Manufacturing to deliver high-impact packaging solutions that meet regulatory and quality standards while supporting growth and