Our international client based in Felling Gateshead is looking for a Packaging Technology Manager. They will be responsible for managing & delivering the best packaging solutions across the region and Business Units, ensuring production and distribution throughout the supply chain.

Hours - Monday to Friday - between 8am to 5pm 36.25 hours
Location - Felling Gateshead and Travel to Europe
Hourly rate - £47 to £69k - depending on experience
Duration - 12 months fixed term contract

Key Responsibilities

Managing & optimising the packaging portfolio with product management, procurement, manufacturing & suppliers

Drive harmonisation and standardisation of packaging portfolio working with all relevant functions considering business requirements
Manage packaging quality by working with suppliers, procurement, manufacturing, distribution and commercial on basis of specifications. Arrange and coordinate compatibility tests and trials for products and packs.
Provide 2nd line technical support, working with local packaging technologists, when issues arise and liaise with relevant functions and suppliers and perform root cause analyses and provide solutions.
Ensure packs meet sustainability standards and requirements
Drive for Value Engineering/cost savings related to the packaging portfolio
Lead projects within their own discipline and/or participates in relevant projects
Understand relevant manufacturing capabilities and requirements for filling and packaging lines (incl. artwork & secondary packaging).
Manage packaging improvements driving operational excellence resulting in production at lowest cost and across sites
Master data maintenance according to standard formats and guidelines

Key Requirements

A BSc/MSc degree or equivalent in System/Packaging Science, Technical Engineering or Material Design
At least 5 years relevant packaging experience working in a manufacturing environment, with a packaging supplier, packaging procurement or relevant R&D.
Experience with defining & managing a packaging portfolio understanding specifications, functional requirements, product/packaging compatibility, manufacturing and logistics.
Experience with packaging quality management across the supply chain, root cause analysis and continuous improvement
Has good knowledge and experience in engineering disciplines (e.g. Chemical or Mechanical)
Understands implications around sustainability and compliance regulations on packaging
Self-starter with strong organisational skills and structured approach
Cross functional mindset with ability to work with various functions ie. Marketing, R&D, Procurement, suppliers, etc.
Project management experience and capabilities to lead a project
Having worked in a multinational environment with sensitivity to different cultural behaviours
Working at a regional level supporting more sites and willing to travel
Excellent communication skills.
Fluent in English

Benefits

Weekly pay
33 days holiday accrual including Bank Holidays
Discounted family days
Company Pension contributions