Packaging Development Manager

NPD Packaging Manager

Contract: Permanent, Full-time (Hybrid: 1 day WFH)

Role Overview:

• Manage the timely and cost-effective delivery of all new product packaging, from inception to market launch.
• Ensure high-quality standards and stakeholder buy-in across all projects.
• Proactively identify and manage packaging NPD impacts and interdependencies within the drinks industry (whisky, rum, cognac).
• Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers for packaging design, development, and sourcing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop comprehensive project plans for packaging NPD, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
• Create detailed project briefs covering design, packaging scope, pricing, and cost of goods.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with creative, marketing, production, and sales teams for seamless packaging execution.
• Maintain clear communication with all internal and external stakeholders throughout the packaging NPD lifecycle.
• Source dry goods, including labels, bottles, cartons, ect
• Ensure all packaging reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
• Manage project budgets for packaging, ensuring cost-effective resource utilisation.
• Oversee packaging testing and quality assurance processes, including visits to bottling halls.
• Ensure all new packaging complies with relevant industry and market-specific regulations.
• Conduct post-launch evaluations of packaging performance.

Skills & Experience:

• Solid understanding of Supply Chain, Operations, logistics, and international movement of goods.
• Proven track record in packaging innovation within the FMCG industry.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Creative and proactive problem-solver with strong analytical reasoning.
• Good understanding of agile project management frameworks.
• Excellent negotiation skills for resources, time, and pricing.
• Experience in risk identification and management.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Degree-qualified with a minimum of three years' experience in project management.
• Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Tropos, Airtable, Jira/Confluence) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams.
• Exceptional attention to detail in planning, execution, and reporting.
• Flexible and adaptable to shifting priorities.
• Desirable: Proven NPD experience in the FMCG sector, up-to-date knowledge of packaging innovations, PMP/PRINCE II certification.

Key Behaviours:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent time management and keen attention to detail.
• Confident in building and maintaining relationships.
• Proactive in identifying challenges and finding solutions.
• Highly motivated, dependable, and results-oriented.