Packaging Innovation Manager - 9 Month FTC

Weetabix; Burton Latimer; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Weetabix is seeking a Packaging Development Lead to advance its packaging innovation initiatives. You will lead high-impact projects aligned with the company's strategy and sustainability goals, working collaboratively across departments. The position offers a competitive salary along with a strong benefits package, enhancing your work-life balance.

Benefits

Double-matched pension scheme

25 days annual leave increasing with service

Healthcare plan

Discounted Weetabix products

Flexible work opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of packaging materials and technologies.
• Proven industry experience in packaging development in FMCG.
• Good understanding of commercials and P&L’s.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead packaging innovation projects and strategies.
• Evaluate packaging prototypes for quality and sustainability.
• Develop a 5-year packaging strategy roadmap.

Skills

Knowledge of packaging materials

Understanding of food manufacturing process

Commercial understanding

Experience in packaging development

Job description

We utilise our Preferred Agency Supplier Partners as and when we require additional support

At Weetabix, we believe that diverse teams drive better ideas, stronger decisions, and a more inclusive workplace for everyone. We’re committed to building an organisation where people from all walks of life feel they belong—where different voices, experiences, and backgrounds are valued and respected.

We're always looking to connect with talented individuals who can help shape the future of our business.

Closing date: 23rd July 2025
Interview process: Two Stage Interview Process
Working pattern: 4 Days Per Week including Weetabix Wednesday, where everyone comes into the office for some great collaboration and meetings -it’s a must! While we operate a hybrid working pattern, we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments or flexibility where needed.

We’re happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process—just let us know how we can support you.

The Recipe (About the Role)

Bolstering our Packaging Team, this FTC role is crucial in advancing our packaging innovation projects and crafting a resilient packaging strategy for the future. You will take the helm in spearheading the development and execution of high-impact packaging initiatives that elevate product functionality and enrich consumer experiences, all while aligning with Weetabix's evolving company strategy and sustainability objectives. Your expertise will be vital in shaping the packaging strategy, blending strategic insight, technical knowledge, and innovative problem-solving to propel packaging innovation from conception to launch, particularly within our Iconic Brands strategy workstream.

• Deliver the agreed transformational packaging innovations from development to launch, working closely with Marketing, Procurement, Suppliers, Product Development, Supply chain and Operations (including capital projects for packaging capital investment where necessary)
• Evaluate and test packaging prototypes to ensure they meet quality, cost, sustainability and functional requirements
• Responsible for planning, executing and reviewing factory trials for assigned projects
• Develop a 5 year packaging strategy roadmap, ensuring alignment with brand strategy, product innovation, sustainability and market trends, through collaboration with the packaging, category and marketing team
• Input into shaping the packing innovation program for our brands, using experience from other brands and categories

The Ingredients (What we need from you)

Key Skills

• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, technologies, design best practices and sustainability
• Good knowledge of food manufacturing process and packaging machinery
• Good understanding of commercials & P&L’s
• Understanding of consumer, customer, channel and business needs, as well as back of house operations, supply chain etc
• Strong and proven industry experience in packaging development; specifically, a track record of implementing new packaging innovations, in FMCG food or consumer goods

Your Bowl of Perks (Benefits)

Competitive salary & Annual Flexible benefits

We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, career, and life outside work.

• Double-matched pension scheme (up to 12% from us)
• 25 days annual leave increasing with service
• Annual Salary review
• Healthcare plan
• Discounted Weetabix products

To support our employees, we also offer:

• Continued investment in your personal development
• We believe in balance, whether it's for family, rest or simply time for you. As well as your holiday entitlement, you can purchase up to 5 days additional annual leave
• Access to 24/7 counselling service (via Grocery Aid partnership)
• The freedom of Flexible Work Opportunities
• Enhanced Maternity / Paternity / Adoption Leave
• Additional Time Off for Fertility Treatment and Neonatal Care
• Working Parents Support Group
• Fully stocked kitchens filled with our delicious products for you to enjoy

To learn more about life at Weetabix, visit our careers page https://weetabixfoodcompany.co.uk/careers/

Please note: We benchmark roles based on your skills and experience, so we do not advertise fixed salary ranges.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship for this position; therefore, we are seeking candidates who do not require sponsorship.

#HaveYouHadYourWeetabix