Packaging Development Manager

• Identify and evaluate potential supplier capabilities, including design & material innovation, quality, reliability & cost.
• Build and manage local and global relationships which facilitate supply chain transparency and support Matalan's ethical trade and ESG strategies.
• Negotiate nominated/mandated supplier contractual agreements including pricing & delivery terms.
• Oversee new asset development with nominated print, card and plastics partners.

• Maintain packaging guidelines to support B&M teams, suppliers and global QC teams
• Oversee the development, specification and procurement of transit, product packaging/labelling and packing methods, to support logistics, operations and omni channel sales, with a focus on design, functionality, product protection and customer experience.
• Provide reporting on material/asset usage from nominated suppliers, supported by scope and transactional certification to mitigate plastic tax/extended producer responsibility.

• Support Inbound Quality Control Manager with quality related packaging issues, facilitate investigation of non-compliant packaging methods/materials and suspected issues with counterfeit assets
• Provide guidance and education on packing issues and compliance requirements to all stakeholders, internal & external

• Act as a subject matter expert on packaging and packaging waste legislation
• Contribute to a sustainable packaging strategy and lead its implementation, with specific focus on 'reduce, re-use, recycle, simplify', PPT, EPR and product passport.
• Regularly undertake in-house and competitor store visits to benchmark; identify issues and opportunities for packaging innovation and cost reduction.
• Increase the use of more sustainable materials and processes, whilst balancing cost as a value retailer.
• Ensure packaging assets, solutions and processes are fit for purpose, consistent and cost effective, whilst reducing the overall amount of packaging we put onto the market, using materials which support Simpler Recycling, mitigating our extended producer liabilities.

• Lead, engage and retain colleagues by creating a high performing team culture, recognising colleague performance and contribution.
• Act as a role model for personal growth whilst supporting and encouraging career development and progression in others
• Monitor and maintain workload and development of the packaging development specialist and packaging development assistants

• Min 10 years' experience working within a similar role/environment.
• Previous experience of managing or mentoring a small team
• Exceptional negotiation and communications skills
• Understanding of product, logistics & retail operations, commercially focused
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally with a focus on collaborating, tackling issues and managing risk
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, stakeholders and deadlines in a time pressured environment whilst maintaining accuracy and attention to detail
• Strategic and analytical thinking with the ability to provide information and analysis in a clear, concise and impactful way

From humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, find out about how Matalan is ever-evolving here.

We know as a team, we are stronger together - we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth.

We want give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don't hesitate to let us know.

In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.

In addition to competitive salaries, we also offer the below core benefits:

• 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
• Thrive Recognition Scheme
• Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
• Life Assurance
• Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
• Pension Scheme
• Access to a wide range of career development
• Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business