Job Title

PROFILE OVERVIEW & JOB SUMMARYThe 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 RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic Packaging DevelopmentDesign, develop, and implement long-term strategies for packaging materials in alignment with business objectives while adhering to the highest quality standards.Responsible for packaging development across new product developments (NPDs), limited editions, new SKUs, and value-added products (VAPs), ensuring innovative and efficient packaging solutions.Support brand teams on all existing 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 OversightLead the development of technical manuals and specifications for packaging, ensuring all documentation supports operational efficiency and compliance.Maintain rigorous quality control processes, ensuring all new packaging meets required standards and regulatory compliance.Develop and manage the empanelment of new vendors based on their capability, process orientation, and infrastructure to support sustainable and innovative packaging solutions in collaboration with procurement.Sustainability and Cost ManagementDrive the shift towards sustainable packaging in line with group objectives, including managing extended producer responsibility (EPR) projects and initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint.Scan the environment to suggest & implement improvements in existing packaging to achieve cost efficiency targets based on consumer feedback.Lead the development of new materials, processes, and technologies pertaining to packaging to reduce costs and improve efficiency.Open Innovation, Global and Industry CollaborationLead Open Innovation by integrating advanced packaging technologies from external partners to enhance product aesthetics, functionality, security, differentiation, and sustainability.Collaborate with global teams and industry partners to align packaging standards and practices.Participate in industry forums to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in packaging development.Cross-Functional CollaborationCoordinate with cross-functional teams primarily Marketing, Operations, Sales to evaluate projects and introduce NPD launches.Issue relevant specifications and SOPs for all packaging materials post successful trials and evaluations, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation in packaging processes.KPIs (Measures of Success for this role)Time to MarketInnovation Ideas quality & funnelCost EfficiencySustainability statusQuality ComplianceCustomer & Consumer SatisfactionPackaging Impact & Success INTERACTIONS INTERNALLY (mention role):Commercial & Planning Teams- Marketing & InsightsIntegrated Operations-R&D, Procurement, Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing and Supply chainOther Functions-Finance, Legal & Regulatory, IT, HRBrand Companies & Technical Head Quarters functional counterpartsEXTERNALLY (mention role):Design, development and Technology partnersSuppliersLaboratories, consultancies, agenciesUniversities & InstitutesPROFILE DETAILSQUALIFICATION Essential CriteriaPost-Graduation in Packaging from IIP from reputed University in India or abroad. Engineering/Food Technology/Material Science at graduation would be advantageous.Desirable CriteriaAdditional 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 CriteriaA minimum of 10 years of experience in packaging development specifically 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 CriteriaExperience 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 advantage PRI LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIESGrowth Mindset; Deliver through Collaboration; Bold & AgileConsumer Centric; Grow Diverse Teams; Open & AuthenticFUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIESPackaging Design and InnovationMaterial Science KnowledgeTechnical Proficiency in Packaging TechnologiesRegulatory Compliance and Safety StandardsSustainability Practices & toolsQuality Control and AssuranceVendor Management and NegotiationData Analysis and Technical ReportingProject Management and CoordinationFinancial acumenBEHAVIORAL SKILLSDrive for business results.Innovation and CreativityProblem Solving and Analytical ThinkingWilling to travel extensivelyCommunication and Interpersonal SkillsTeam Collaboration & Proactive LeadershipAdaptability and FlexibilityResourcefulness