Interim Packaging Project Manager
Interim Packaging Project Manager

Interim Packaging Project Manager

Temporary 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Pod Talent

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a high-impact packaging project ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
  • Company: Global FMCG food manufacturer with a focus on innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and potential for permanent position.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in packaging transformation while developing your career.
  • Qualifications: Experience in packaging development within FMCG and strong stakeholder management skills.
  • Other info: Immediate start preferred; great opportunity for career growth.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ per year.

We’re partnering with a global FMCG food manufacturer who are looking for a Packaging Technologist / Packaging Project Manager to support a business‑critical packaging transformation programme. This is a newly created role, brought in to lead a high‑impact packaging compliance and improvement project driven by upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) requirements. The role will initially be offered on a 6 month fixed‑term basis, with clear long‑term visibility and potential to convert to a permanent position.

The Role

You’ll act as a technical packaging expert and project lead, working cross‑functionally and directly with external packaging suppliers and co‑manufacturers to ensure the existing and future packaging portfolio is fit for purpose, regulation‑ready, and commercially viable. This is a hands‑on, delivery‑focused role, centred on coordinating information, managing suppliers, translating regulation into practical actions, and presenting clear recommendations back to the business.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead a structured PPWR gap analysis across primary, secondary and tertiary packaging formats
  • Act as the packaging and materials subject‑matter expert within cross‑functional project teams
  • Engage directly with external packaging suppliers and third‑party manufacturers to assess compliance, data readiness and technical feasibility
  • Coordinate packaging information, documentation and action plans aligned to EU timelines
  • Identify and propose practical packaging solutions and alternatives, balancing compliance, feasibility and brand requirements
  • Present findings, risks and recommendations clearly to internal stakeholders
  • Support the development of a longer‑term packaging redesign roadmap

About You

We’re looking for someone with solid packaging experience, who can step into a visible role and add value quickly. In order to be successful:

  • Proven experience working in packaging development or packaging projects within an FMCG environment (food ideal)
  • Strong understanding of packaging materials, structures and performance requirements
  • Experience managing or supporting packaging change projects and working across multiple stakeholders
  • Confidence working directly with suppliers and challenging information where needed
  • Awareness of EU packaging legislation (direct PPWR experience highly desirable but not essential)
  • A practical, organised, delivery‑focused approach

Due to the nature of the role, candidates who are immediately available or have a short notice period is preferred. They are unable to offer sponsorship unfortunately, so candidates must have full permanent right to work in the UK.

Interim Packaging Project Manager employer: Pod Talent

Join a leading global FMCG food manufacturer in South West London/Surrey, where you will play a pivotal role in a transformative packaging project that aligns with EU regulations. The company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, offering competitive salaries, hybrid working arrangements, and clear pathways for career progression. With a focus on employee development and a commitment to sustainability, this is an excellent opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the packaging industry.
Pod Talent

Contact Detail:

Pod Talent Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Interim Packaging Project Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the packaging and FMCG sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of EU packaging regulations and recent trends in the industry. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role and how you can lead that packaging transformation programme.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your project management skills! Use examples from your past roles where you successfully managed packaging projects. Highlight your ability to coordinate with suppliers and cross-functional teams to deliver results.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect with us directly.

We think you need these skills to ace Interim Packaging Project Manager

Packaging Development
Project Management
EU Packaging Legislation
Compliance Assessment
Supplier Management
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Technical Feasibility Analysis
Gap Analysis
Packaging Materials Knowledge
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Delivery-Focused Approach
Stakeholder Engagement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Packaging Project Manager. Highlight your experience in packaging development and any relevant projects you've led, especially in FMCG. We want to see how you can add value quickly!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your understanding of EU packaging legislation and how your hands-on approach aligns with our needs. Let us know why you’re excited about this opportunity!

Showcase Your Project Management Skills: In your application, emphasise your project management experience. We’re looking for someone who can coordinate information and manage suppliers effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated similar challenges in the past.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at Pod Talent

✨Know Your Packaging Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of packaging materials and regulations, especially the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Being able to discuss specific examples from your past experience will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.

✨Show Your Project Management Skills

Prepare to talk about your experience managing packaging projects. Have a few examples ready where you led a project, coordinated with suppliers, or tackled compliance issues. Highlight how you kept everything organised and on track, as this role is all about delivery.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

Think about how you’ve worked with cross-functional teams in the past. Be ready to share how you communicated with different stakeholders, managed expectations, and presented findings. This will demonstrate your ability to engage effectively with both internal teams and external suppliers.

✨Be Ready for Practical Solutions

The interviewers will likely want to see your problem-solving skills in action. Prepare to discuss potential packaging solutions you might propose for compliance challenges. Show them you can balance feasibility with brand requirements and think on your feet!

Interim Packaging Project Manager
Pod Talent

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