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- Tasks: Lead innovative packaging projects for pet nutrition, collaborating with diverse teams.
- Company: Join Mars, a top-rated workplace focused on purpose and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, and access to Mars University for continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable packaging while driving innovation in the pet industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in technical discipline; experience in packaging and team leadership required.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to excellence and sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Packaging Development Leader role's purpose is to provide technical leadership of the packaging innovation programme for the Pet Nutrition Technology Hub team. To develop and implement a pet-parent centric packaging innovation pipeline delivering to the Central team agreed portfolios. Work in partnership with R&D in the regions and commercial to deliver optimised, harmonised and sustainable packaging specifications. Be the initiators and owners of global packaging specifications. Provide leadership & direction for the packaging team under their line management. Be a key and active member of the broader Packaging Leadership team and member of the Technology Hub R&D leadership team.
The job requires excellent cross functional alignment across R&D, Marketing, Commercial, Legal, Regulatory, Quality and supply to deliver innovations into the market. The current and future programme development additionally requires a high level of external collaboration particularly with packaging suppliers, design/prototype agencies and co‑manufacturers. The job will also require a high level of collaboration at a functional level, being part of the broader packaging leadership team and have a responsibility to build packaging excellence and talent.
What are we looking for?
- University Degree in a technical discipline. Ideally Packaging/Design or Science/Engineering.
- Packaging Subject Matter Expertise: Has a strong record of delivering packaging solutions to market as part of FMCG and/or suppliers.
- Has team leadership experience.
- Strategy: The ability to articulate and translate business goals and requirements to the packaging team creating buy‑in and collaboration.
- Leadership: Excellent inter‑personal abilities, influencing without authority and inspiring and motivating others.
- Experience of people management, including engaging, motivating, and ensuring results delivery from their team.
- Partnership building: Has a strong track record of building partnerships internally and externally.
What will be your key responsibilities?
- Drive a Pet Parent Centric Innovation mindset across the packaging team, working closely with key internal business partners in R&D, Marketing, CTI/CMI, Commercial, Legal, Regulatory, Quality and Supply to ensure innovative concepts are delivered to market.
- Build key external relationships to support and deliver prototypes and innovations with packaging suppliers, research agencies, external co‑manufacturers, packaging organisations, institutes and universities.
- External focus is key to bringing insights and trends into the packaging strategy and programme including consumer relevant packaging trends, material, and technology advances (including data‑led/AI) to inform and inspire.
- Work with the sustainability team ensuring the delivery of the Mars Sustainable in a Generation goals, including D4C (Design for Circularity) and plastic reduction programmes.
- Work with the packaging leadership team to support the development and implementation of enabling packaging strategies and capabilities.
- Collaborate with and support the Science & Technology teams to ensure the development and delivery of suitable future packaging formats to deliver the next generation of products.
- Build a strong and effective working relationship with legal, ensuring freedom to operate and taking opportunities to protect intellectual property.
- Have a thorough understanding of the external environment, legislation and issues that will impact packaging design into the future.
- Leadership and development of their packaging team.
- Drive a mindset of innovative and sustainable design underpinned with technical excellence.
- Member of the Technology Hub R&D leadership team driving excellence in innovation delivery, team engagement and strong cross‑functional collaboration.
- Accountable for supporting team engagement, developing both technical and softer skills.
- Work with the packaging leadership team to build a strong motivated and engaged talent pipeline for packaging.
- Responsible to partner with Central Packaging Capability Director to ensure packaging work is executed in line with packaging Functional Excellence and sustainability roadmap.
- Active member of Central Packaging community helping to advance functional excellence and business impact.
What Can You Expect from Mars?
- Consistently ranked among the UK’s Top 10 ‘Great Places to Work’ since 2016.
- Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
- Join a purpose‑driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
- A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in‑house Mars University.
- An industry‑competitive salary and benefits package, including a company bonus.
Mars is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities, long‑term health conditions, or neurodiversity during the application and recruitment process. To request reasonable adjustments, complete our Reasonable Adjustment Request Form here.
Packaging Development Leader employer: Mars
Contact Detail:
Mars Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Packaging Development Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the packaging industry, especially those at Mars or similar companies. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past packaging projects and innovations. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to hiring managers or team leaders at Mars through LinkedIn or email. Express your interest in the Packaging Development Leader role and share how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in packaging, sustainability, and technology. This knowledge will not only impress interviewers but also show that you're passionate about the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Packaging Development Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Packaging Development Leader role. Highlight your technical expertise in packaging and any leadership experience you've had, as this is key for us.
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 how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Be sure to mention any relevant partnerships you've built in previous roles.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working closely with various teams, make sure to highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with cross-functional teams in the past to deliver innovative solutions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mars
✨Know Your Packaging Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your packaging knowledge, especially around sustainable practices and innovations. Be ready to discuss recent trends in the industry and how they can be applied to the role. This shows you're not just familiar with the basics but are also passionate about the future of packaging.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience. Think about times when you've motivated a team or influenced others without direct authority. Mars values collaboration, so be ready to share how you've built partnerships both internally and externally.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with Mars' mission and values, especially their focus on sustainability and innovation. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, particularly around the Design for Circularity initiative.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their current packaging challenges or how they measure success in their innovation pipeline. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.