Packaging Manager

Holland & Barrett; Nuneaton; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

33 days holiday

Private medical insurance

Annual bonus up to 20%

Wellbeing & mental health support

Cycle to Work scheme

Staff product discount

Job summary

Holland & Barrett in the United Kingdom is seeking a Senior Packaging Manager to shape the strategy, standards and technical direction that move packaging from idea to shelf. You will be our senior packaging expert, translating brand priorities into clear plans and leading our packaging team through development, validation, scale-up and production.

You will own regulatory responses to PPWR, drive sustainable and cost-conscious packaging solutions, collaborate with internal teams and suppliers,

Qualifications

• Senior packaging leadership experience in FMCG/retail.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, processes and testing.
• Experience turning regulatory changes into actionable plans.
• Proven ability to develop and coach packaging teams.

Responsibilities

• Define and own the packaging strategy and roadmap.
• Lead packaging development from NPD through validation and scale-up.
• Ensure compliance with PPWR and sustainability targets.
• Collaborate with internal teams and suppliers to deliver solutions.

Skills

Packaging strategy

Regulatory compliance

Team leadership

Packaging development

Sustainability focus

Job description

Packaging sits at the heart of how great products come to life. As our Senior Packaging Manager, you'll shape the strategy, standards and technical direction that help move packaging from idea to shelf. You'll be our senior packaging expert, connecting technical detail with the bigger picture. From new packaging development and production through to sustainability and regulation, you'll help us make smarter decisions for our products, customers and business. A key part of the role will be leading our packaging team, developing capability and creating clear, consistent ways of working for the future. What you'll be doing

• Own and develop our packaging strategy and roadmap, translating brand priorities into meaningful packaging plans.
• Lead our response to evolving Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) requirements, turning complex regulatory changes into clear actions, standards and milestones.
• Provide senior technical expertise across packaging materials, manufacturing processes, specifications, testing and technical decision-making.
• Lead and coach two Packaging direct reports, building capability and supporting the team through new ways of working.
• Oversee packaging development from NPD through validation, scale-up and production implementation.
• Manage complex packaging change across compliance, sustainability, cost, technical performance and operational requirements.
• Influence wider Packaging, Sourcing and Sustainability strategy through strong technical insight and commercial understanding.
• Work closely with internal teams and suppliers to solve technical challenges and deliver better packaging solutions.
• Experience in packaging within FMCG, retail, manufacturing or a related consumer environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes and packaging development.
• Deep understanding of PPWR, including the practical implications for packaging strategy, compliance and delivery.
• Experience leading a packaging team and developing people and capability.
• The ability to turn detailed technical or regulatory requirements into clear strategic priorities and practical plans.
• Experience managing packaging through development, validation, scale-up and production.
• Strong judgement and problem-solving skills, with the ability to balance technical performance, sustainability, cost, compliance and commercial needs.
• We offer hybrid working, with an expectation that you'll be present at one of our Holland & Barrett offices in London, Nuneaton or Burton for a minimum of 2 days per week. Some travel between locations may be required, particularly during the early stages of the role.
• 33 days, including bank holidays
• Holiday purchase scheme
• 24/7 Virtual GP access
• Private medical insurance - single cover
• Annual free at-home health testing kit
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme and a network of Mental Health First Aiders whenever you need support
• Workplace pension with 5% employer contribution
• Life assurance (2x salary, after 6 months' service)
• Annual Bonus (subject to company and individual performance) up to 20%
• £50 colleague product allowance on Holland & Barrett products (after 6 months' service)
• Access to cashback and discounts from a wide range of retailers
• 25% colleague discount, available in store and online
• Free Wellhub membership, with discounted access to gyms, studios and premium wellbeing apps
• Cycle to Work scheme
• This is an opportunity to shape the future of packaging at Holland & Barrett, combining technical expertise, strategic thinking and people leadership to make a real difference.