Packaging Technologist * £50,000 – £60,000 * North West London

TN United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Packaging Development Manager to spearhead innovative packaging solutions and sustainability initiatives. This role involves designing the packaging roadmap, ensuring legal compliance, and championing new product development processes. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, attend industry trade shows, and translate environmental challenges into competitive strategies. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and have a strong background in packaging technology, this position offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the premium snack food sector.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years experience in FMCG packaging management, preferably in Food or Beverage.
• Expertise in packaging materials, technologies, and printing processes.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead the Packaging activity roadmap and innovation plans.
• Ensure compliance for new packaging materials and lead sustainability programs.

Skills

Packaging Technology

Project Management

Sustainability Practices

Technical Risk Assessment

Education

Degree in Packaging Technology or related field

Tools

Packaging Software

Job description

Job Description:

Reporting to the UK Head of Packaging, the successful candidate will be responsible for the Packaging Development and Innovation Programme and Sustainable Packaging Strategy.

About the Business:

Our client is a vibrant, fast-growing manufacturer of premium snack foods, supplying most major retailers with both branded and retailer own-label products.

The Role:

1. Design the Packaging activity roadmap and lead the delivery of Innovation & NPD packaging-related plans.
2. Ensure legal compliance for waste and accurate technical data (spec) for all new packaging materials.
3. Champion the NPD stage & gate process for all aspects of Packaging development, including coordination of factory trials, creation of packaging specifications, and support for product launches.
4. Support artwork and packaging development through technologists and Artwork team, including new palletisation guidelines and post-implementation reviews.
5. Lead the Packaging Sustainability programme as part of the wider Europe Snacks Group Sustainable Packaging Strategy.
6. Attend relevant Packaging and Sustainability trade shows and expert events to stay ahead of industry and environmental challenges.
7. Translate external environmental factors into recommendations to help the business stay competitive and aligned with market standards.
8. Support performance optimisation of packaging materials and technology following product launches by managing partnerships with suppliers.
9. Conduct technical risk assessments for packaging changes and provide guidance on risk mitigation, including SOP generation and settings for new films.
10. Provide packaging expertise and leadership to Production & Engineering teams, focusing on troubleshooting and efficiency improvements.

The Ideal Candidate:

• Enthusiastic, initiative-driven, well-organised, and experienced in Packaging Technology.
• Minimum 2-3 years’ experience in an FMCG packaging management role, preferably in Food or Beverage.
• Expertise in packaging materials and machinability, packing technologies, printing processes, and distribution handling.