Packaging Lead (Sustainability & Innovation)

The People Co.; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sustainability consultancy in the United Kingdom is seeking a professional to lead packaging sustainability initiatives. The role involves translating legislation into actionable strategies, evaluating materials for recyclability, and delivering sustainable packaging solutions. The ideal candidate possesses experience in packaging sustainability and will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive impactful changes. The position does not offer visa sponsorship, and candidates must have the right to work in the UK.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading packaging sustainability initiatives across global markets.
• Ability to translate legislation into actionable strategies.
• Proficient in evaluating materials for recyclability and performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead sustainability initiatives for packaging.
• Deliver sustainable packaging solutions in NPD projects.
• Collaborate with partners to align strategies with sustainability goals.

Skills

Lead packaging sustainability strategy

Collaboration with cross-functional teams

Material assessment and evaluation

Impact assessments (LCAs, recyclability testing)

Job description

Key Accountabilities

• Lead packaging sustainability initiatives across global markets.
• Translate legislation (EU, UK&I, US) into actionable strategies.
• Evaluate materials and technologies for recyclability and performance.
• Deliver sustainable packaging solutions within NPD projects.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to make it happen.

People Profile

• Lead packaging sustainability strategy: embed design-for-recycling, ensure compliance with global legislation, and maintain the sustainability roadmap.
• Assess and evaluate materials, technologies, and opportunities across short to long-term horizons, providing technical and commercial recommendations.
• Conduct impact assessments (LCAs, recyclability testing, downgauging) and track performance to drive continuous improvement and reporting.
• Deliver sustainable packaging solutions within NPD projects — from ideation and concept validation through to launch.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners, influencing stakeholders to align packaging strategies with business and sustainability goals.
• This is a fantastic opportunity to influence real change and make packaging more sustainable on a global scale.

We regret that we cannot offer visa sponsorship and can only consider candidates who hold the right to work in the UK.

To apply, please e-mail in strict confidence, with a comprehensive CV, including salary details, quoting the above reference and for the attention of James Constable

Due to a high volume of responses, we cannot reply to each application individually. If you have not had a response within one week, we are sorry to say your application has not been successful on this occasion.