Print Quality Management Lead in Salford

As a Print Quality Management Lead on a 12 month fixed term contract, you will own the end‑to‑end development and delivery of print quality across all Kellanova packaging portfolios. This includes ensuring full compliance with global design and colour standards, securing production feasibility, and driving continuous improvement in innovation, cost optimisation and operational efficiency. You will be accountable for flawless execution from initial design intent through to final print, proactively identifying and managing risks throughout the process. This role reports to the Packaging Design Leader and requires strong cross‑functional collaboration with internal teams, including Brand Design, Marketing, Procurement and Supply Chain, as well as external partners such as printers, engravers, ink suppliers and colour separation studios. The position is primarily based at our Media City office with hybrid home working, and will involve occasional travel within the UK and to Germany.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Artwork & Design Leadership: Lead artwork and design reviews, validating accuracy, feasibility, and alignment with printer specifications through flat file checks, concept reviews, and proof approvals.
• Print Trial Ownership: Prepare and execute print trials by defining scope, coordinating offline/online trials, qualifying new colours, and assessing substrates, lines, and special effects.
• Innovation & Cost Efficiency: Drive innovation by introducing new printing techniques, special effects, and cost‑saving opportunities across inks, substrates, and tooling.
• Workflow & Process Optimisation: Streamline production workflows and approval processes to improve efficiency, reduce lead times, and support effective printer operations.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with Procurement, Marketing, Toolmakers, Suppliers, and Printers to align trial planning and deliver samples for new items or colours.
• Quality Approval & Documentation: Oversee approval workflows, validate print tool files, monitor first runs, conduct Print Quality Assessments, and manage digital systems and documentation.
• Continuous Improvement & Coaching: Enhance print quality and colour management through continuous improvement, while coaching GL2 PQM roles to build capability and succession.

We’re Looking for Someone With

• Deep knowledge of print production methods, including flexographic, lithographic, and gravure printing, as well as colour management best practices.
• Hands‑on experience with artwork development platforms (e.g., Dragonfly) and expertise in evaluating print quality.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials, substrates, inks, varnishes, and specialty print finishes.
• Proven ability to manage projects effectively and collaborate across multifunctional teams.
• Demonstrated capability to drive innovation and identify cost‑efficient solutions in packaging development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in the printing industry, quality management, or brand design is considered an advantage.

What’s Next

After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. If you join our team, you’ll be rewarded for the difference you make. Our comprehensive benefits offer you the support you need through your life events, big or small.

Get to Know Us

We’ve always been driven to unleash the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our iconic, world‑class brands at Kellanova include Pringles, Cheez‑It, Pop‑Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others. Mars, Incorporated has acquired Kellanova in a transaction that brings together iconic brands, storied legacies and outstanding capabilities with a view to shape the future of snacking.

Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status.