Packaging Development Manager

Job Description

​1. Lead Packaging Development (Hands-on + Team Leadership)

Lead and manage end-to-end packaging development with strong personal involvement in flexible packaging and printing execution

Act as the key technical expert for printing quality, artwork feasibility, and on-pack visual excellence

Coach and elevate team capability in printing, color control, and material-performance understanding

2. Drive NPD Speed & Execution Excellence

Manage and prioritize packaging workload to deliver fast, right-first-time execution

Lead packaging for NPD projects with focus on speed to market, cost optimization, and print consistency

Work closely with Marketing, Procurement, and Suppliers to ensure design-to-print translation is accurate and efficient

3. Printing & Flexible Packaging Expertise (Core Focus)

Own technical validation of printing processes (flexo, gravure, digital) and ensure scalability in production

Troubleshoot and resolve printing defects (color variation, registration, ink adhesion, lamination issues, etc.)

Collaborating with suppliers on press trials, artwork adaptation, and continuous improvement of print quality

Ensure packaging structures are optimized for performance, cost, and manufacturability

4. Supplier & Material Management

Lead evaluation and approval of new packaging materials, converters, and printing suppliers

Ensure compliance with PZ Cussons standards, including testing, validation, and documentation

Build strong technical partnerships with flexible packaging converters and printing houses

5. Continuous Improvement & Competitive Edge

Drive margin improvement initiatives through material optimization and printing efficiency

Conduct competitor packaging and print benchmarking to identify improvement opportunities

Introducing new printing technologies, finishes, and innovations to elevate brand perception

Requirements

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field

2. Min. 5 years’ experience in Packaging Development, preferably with strong exposure to:

• Flexible packaging (laminates, films, sachets, pouches)

• Printing technologies (flexo, gravure, digital)

• Proven hands-on experience with printing process troubleshooting and press trials

• Strong understanding of:

  • Color management & artwork adaptation

  • Ink systems, substrates, and lamination structures

3. Experience working with printing suppliers / converters (critical)

4. Not color-blind (critical for print evaluation)

5. Strong project and stakeholder management in fast-paced FMCG environment

6. High attention to detail, especially in print quality and finishing

7. Ability to solve technical issues quickly and pragmatically

8. Strong leadership: able to coach team and influence cross-functions

9. Agile, proactive, and comfortable working in rapid development cycles

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