Job Title

PROFILE OVERVIEW & JOB SUMMARY The Packaging Development Manager will spearhead our efforts in packaging innovation, renovation, troubleshooting, and technical support. This role demands a creative yet analytical approach to develop packaging solutions that not only meet aesthetic and functional standards but also comply with environmental and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will lead these initiatives, ensuring alignment with our global strategy and maintaining the competitive edge for our brands.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Strategic Packaging Development Design, develop, and implement long-term strategies for packaging materialsin alignment with business objectives while adhering to the highest quality standards. Responsible for packaging developmentacross new product developments (NPDs), limited editions, new SKUs, and value-added products (VAPs), ensuring innovative and efficient packaging solutions. Support brand teams on allexisting brand restage projects , partnering closely with product developers, project managers, and the business delivery head. Extend packaging development support to adjacent categories like water, non-alcoholic beverages,and other brand extensions, enhancing brand consistency and consumer experience. Create a repository of cost efficient as well as premium packaging and brand security solutions. Technical and Quality Oversight Lead the development oftechnical manuals and specifications for packaging , ensuring all documentation supportsoperational efficiency and compliance. Maintainrigorous quality control processes , ensuring all new packaging meets required standards and regulatory compliance. Develop and manage the empanelment of new vendorsbased on their capability, process orientation, and infrastructure to support sustainable and innovative packaging solutions in collaboration with procurement. Sustainability and Cost Management Drive the shift towards sustainable packaging in line with group objectives , including managing extended producer responsibility (EPR) projects andinitiatives to reduce the carbon footprint. Scan the environment to suggest & implement improvements in existing packaging to achieve cost efficiencytargets based on consumer feedback. Lead the development ofnew materials, processes, and technologies pertaining to packaging to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Open Innovation, Global and Industry Collaboration Lead Open Innovation by integrating advanced packaging technologies from external partnersto enhance product aesthetics, functionality, security, differentiation, and sustainability. Collaborate withglobal teams and industry partnerstoalign packaging standards and practices. Participate inindustry forums to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in packaging development. Cross-Functional Collaboration Coordinate with cross-functional teamsprimarily Marketing, Operations, Sales to evaluate projects and introduce NPD launches. Issue relevant specifications and SOPs for all packaging materials post successful trials and evaluations , ensuringcontinuous improvement and innovation in packaging processes.KPIs (Measures of Success for this role)Time to Market Innovation Ideas quality & funnel Cost Efficiency Sustainability status Quality Compliance Customer & Consumer Satisfaction Packaging Impact & SuccessINTERACTIONS INTERNALLY (mention role): Commercial & Planning Teams- Marketing & Insights Integrated Operations-R&D, Procurement, Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing and Supply chain Other Functions-Finance, Legal & Regulatory, IT, HR Brand Companies & Technical Head Quarters functional counterparts EXTERNALLY (mention role): Design, development and Technology partners Suppliers Laboratories, consultancies, agencies Universities & InstitutesPROFILE DETAILS QUALIFICATION Essential Criteria Post-Graduation in Packaging from IIP from reputed University in India or abroad. Engineering/Food Technology/Material Science at graduation would be advantageous. Desirable Criteria Additional certifications in Packaging Design Software, Digital Packaging workflows, Sustainability tools will be beneficial. Advanced packaging courses like Simulation models from AGR, GPI, GMIC, WPO, IPI or equivalent will be preferredEXPERIENCE(Please specify in case there are any preferred industries) : Essential Criteria A minimum of 10 years of experience inpackaging developmentspecifically within the beverage industry or closely related FMCG sectors. Prior experience in working in R&D/Technical development with proven track record of developing new packaging, formats and improving existing packaging, showcasing creativity and technical proficiency from concept through to commercialization.Desirable Criteria Experience in development of various Packaging materials like glass, PET, closures, metal cans and labels. Understanding of plant equipment like blowing machines, filling and capping machines will be an added advantagePRI LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES Growth Mindset; Deliver through Collaboration; Bold & Agile Consumer Centric; Grow Diverse Teams; Open & AuthenticFUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIESPackaging Design and Innovation Material Science Knowledge Technical Proficiency in Packaging Technologies Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards Sustainability Practices & tools Quality Control and Assurance Vendor Management and Negotiation Data Analysis and Technical Reporting Project Management and Coordination Financial acumenBEHAVIORAL SKILLSDrive for business results. Innovation and Creativity Problem Solving and Analytical Thinking Willing to travel extensively Communication and Interpersonal Skills Team Collaboration & Proactive Leadership Adaptability and Flexibility Resourcefulness