At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the innovation of food packaging solutions and enhance product appeal.
- Company: Join one of the UK’s largest bakery businesses with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Opportunities for growth, long-term career development, and a friendly team environment.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with travel to various sites and suppliers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable packaging and consumer experience.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and 3–5+ years in packaging development.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
The Group Packaging Innovation Manager will lead and support the innovation and development of food packaging solutions across all business units within the group.
They will be responsible for researching new materials, technologies, and concepts, ensuring packaging delivers on functionality, safety, compliance, sustainability, and brand identity.
This role will drive innovative, consumer‑centric packaging solutions that enhance product appeal, support sustainability goals, and promote forward‑thinking design across the organisation.
This is a fast paced role, where the successful candidate will have a Degree in Packaging Technology, Materials Science, Food Science, Engineering, or a related field.
They should ideally have 3–5+ years’ experience in a packaging development or packaging technology role, ideally within the food sector, they will also have solid knowledge of packaging materials used in food applications (e. g., films/flexibles, paperboard, rigid plastics, barrier materials, MAP, etc.).
This role is based in Hamilton, with regular travel to visit other group sites (Cardiff, Salisbury, Manchester, Sheffield) and suppliers.
This is a great opportunity for someone to gain experience with one of the UK’s largest bakery businesses.
They’ll work closely with a friendly and engaging team from both a site and group perspective, offering opportunities for growth and long‑term career development.
What you’ll actually do!
- As the Group Packaging Innovation Manger they will lead the research and development of innovative food packaging solutions, identifying opportunities to improve functionality, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the consumer experience.
- They will explore and evaluate new materials, technologies, and formats by working closely with suppliers, start-ups, and innovation partners - including feasibility assessments, prototyping, and testing.
- They will also conduct horizon scanning to monitor trends in packaging, sustainability, consumer behaviour, and regulatory developments - sharing relevant insights with Category Leadership Teams (CLTs) and other relevant key stakeholders.
- They will translate consumer, brand, and commercial insights into packaging concepts, working cross-functionally with Development, Marketing, R&D, Operations, Technical, SHE, and Procurement to ensure viability and alignment.
- As well as develop and implement a packaging benchmarking strategy to evaluate industry trends, identify best practices, and inform future innovation and design decisions.
- They will lead packaging development projects from concept through to launch, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement and timely delivery.
Qualifications
- Degree in Packaging Technology, Materials Science, Food Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- 3–5+ years’ experience in a packaging development or packaging technology role, ideally within the food sector.
- Solid knowledge of packaging materials used in food applications (e. g., films/flexibles, paperboard, rigid plastics, barrier materials, MAP, etc.).
- Understanding of food safety, hygiene, and regulatory compliance in relation to packaging (e. g., EPR, PPT, BRCGS, Food Contact Materials Regulations).
- Experience working with packaging lines and machinery in production environments.
- Excellent project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Able to communicate effectively at multiple levels inside and outside the organisation both verbally and in writing.
Influencing skills essential to ensure projects delivered at pace.
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Group Packaging Innovation Manager in London employer: Finsbury Food Group
Finsbury Food Group is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment in Mamhilad where you can thrive as a Reliability Lead. With enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with extensive learning opportunities, we prioritise employee growth and well-being while you contribute to our mission of delivering exceptional gluten-free products.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Packaging Innovation Manager in London
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Finsbury Food Group.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Finsbury Food Group!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Finsbury Food Group, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Finsbury Food Group, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Group Packaging Innovation Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Finsbury Food Group, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Finsbury Food Group.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Finsbury Food Group. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Finsbury Food Group. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Finsbury Food Group
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Finsbury Food Group’s mission.
