Retail Packaging Technologist Role
This multinational retail corporation has an extensive product range with diverse packaging needs, emphasizing the importance of efficient and effective solutions.
Responsibilities:
* Offer expertise on packaging design, construction, material selection, and commercial aspects to develop innovative and sustainable solutions.
* Support the development of enterprise-wide packaging targets and implement technical solutions to meet these objectives.
* Pursue opportunities for packaging innovation through partnerships with NGOs, suppliers, primary market research, and exploration of circularity using sustainable materials.
* Analyze trade-offs and provide options that balance sustainability, durability, and cost in areas such as polybags, pack design, and hangers.
* Collaborate with merchandising, brand, and product/packaging suppliers to develop new packaging solutions for apparel and lifestyle departments.
* Maintain consistency in design and standards across the product range where necessary.
* Work closely with the Packaging Buyer to develop sourcing strategies that maximize economies of scale.
* Trial new design standards and collaborate with buying and merchandising teams to approve all new packaging designs or material changes.
* Foster continuous improvement of packaging solutions, providing technical support on packaging issues.
* Develop a reporting process for escalation and packaging issue resolution from supply chain to store and post-consumer levels.
* Identify opportunities to improve recyclability of packaging through return-to-store schemes and material selection.
* Partner with departmental members to create end-to-end packaging solutions meeting product requirements and aligning with brand guidelines.
* Provide guidance on packaging regulations and requirements in new and existing markets, collaborating with Sustainability, Environmental, and Legal Teams to ensure compliance.
* Assist buying and merchandising teams in considering packaging requirements during New Product Development.
* Advise on the sustainability of solutions and certification/GRS requirements to meet specifications and standards.
* Contribute to the development of the packaging standards manual covering brand look and feel, as well as technical standards.
This role requires a strong understanding of packaging principles, commercial awareness, and excellent collaboration skills. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving the development of innovative packaging solutions that balance business needs with sustainability goals.
The ideal candidate will have a solid background in packaging technology, commercial acumen, and experience working within cross-functional teams. A proven track record of delivering packaging solutions that meet business objectives while reducing environmental impact is essential.
Applications are invited from experienced packaging professionals looking to make a meaningful contribution to a leading retail organization. If you are passionate about developing sustainable packaging solutions and have a collaborative approach to work, please apply.