At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative packaging projects from concept to launch in fresh produce.
- Company: Join a well-established fresh produce business in Maidstone, Kent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and exposure to multiple operations.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for continuous improvement and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability and packaging innovation in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in packaging development and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
Fresh People are currently recruiting for a Packaging Development Manager on behalf of a well-established fresh produce business based in Maidstone, Kent. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced packaging professional to join a fast-paced business supporting multiple fresh produce categories across retail and supply chain operations. The role will be based in Maidstone with regular travel to operational and packing sites across Kent.
The Role
This is a hands-on packaging development position responsible for managing packaging projects from concept through to implementation across fresh produce and short shelf-life food categories. You will work closely with operational sites, suppliers, technical, commercial and procurement teams to deliver innovative, compliant and commercially viable packaging solutions while supporting sustainability objectives and operational efficiencies.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead packaging development projects from concept through to launch
- Work closely with packhouses and operational sites to plan and manage packaging trials
- Develop fit-for-purpose packaging solutions aligned to operational, customer and sustainability requirements
- Manage packaging specifications, cutter guides, sealing requirements and performance criteria
- Liaise with packaging suppliers to develop and refine concepts, samples and final packaging formats
- Support sustainability initiatives including plastic reduction, material changes and packaging optimisation
- Ensure packaging complies with food contact legislation and retailer packaging requirements
- Manage artwork approval processes and packaging sign-off workflows
- Maintain accurate version control across artwork, specifications and packaging approvals
- Support implementation and continuous improvement across packaging formats and materials
- Work collaboratively across commercial, technical, procurement and operational functions
About You
- Previous packaging development experience within Fresh Produce
- Strong understanding of packaging compliance and food contact legislation
- Experience managing packaging trials and implementation projects
- Experience working closely with operational or manufacturing environments
- Strong stakeholder management and supplier communication skills
- Organised with strong project management capability
- Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills
- Passion for packaging innovation and sustainability
Whats on Offer
- Salary £35,000 - £45,000 depending on experience
- Full-time permanent opportunity
- Kent-based role with site exposure across multiple operations
- Opportunity to work within a fast-paced fresh produce supply chain environment
- Collaborative and commercially focused business environment
Packaging Development Manager in Dartford employer: Fresh People Ltd
Join a well-established fresh produce business in Maidstone, Kent, where your expertise as a Packaging Development Manager will be valued in a dynamic and collaborative environment. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, you'll have the opportunity to lead impactful packaging projects while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. This role not only offers competitive salary packages but also the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the fresh produce supply chain.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Packaging Development Manager in Dartford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fresh produce industry on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its sustainability initiatives. Show them you’re not just about packaging, but that you’re passionate about making a difference in the fresh produce sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your previous experience aligns with their needs, especially around managing packaging trials and compliance. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Packaging Development Manager in Dartford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Packaging Development Manager role. Highlight your previous packaging experience, especially in fresh produce, and showcase any relevant projects you've managed. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about packaging innovation and sustainability. Share specific examples of how you've led projects from concept to launch, and how you’ve collaborated with teams to achieve results.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention your problem-solving skills. We love candidates who can think on their feet and come up with innovative solutions. Share a story where you tackled a challenge in packaging development and what the outcome was!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fresh People Ltd
✨Know Your Packaging Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of packaging materials and compliance regulations. Be ready to discuss specific examples of projects you've managed, especially those related to fresh produce. This will show that you understand the nuances of the industry and can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience managing packaging trials and implementation projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, highlighting how you’ve successfully led projects from concept to launch while keeping sustainability in mind.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves liaising with various teams, be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively communicated with stakeholders in the past. Share examples of how you’ve collaborated with operational sites, suppliers, and technical teams to deliver successful packaging solutions.
✨Passion for Sustainability is Key
Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability by discussing any initiatives you've been involved in, such as plastic reduction or material changes. Companies are looking for candidates who not only understand the importance of compliance but also have a genuine passion for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.
