At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead packaging innovation and strategy for over 900 own-label products at Waitrose.
- Company: Join the largest employee-owned business in the UK, known for retail excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and a focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable packaging solutions and lead a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in strategic packaging and proven leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 71700 - 111000 £ per year.
About the Role
The Waitrose Own Brand team is responsible for developing and protecting the strategy and design of over 900 own-label products, including Essential Waitrose, Cooks' Ingredients, and No.1 Waitrose ranges.
The multidisciplinary Own Brand team includes roles responsible for product strategy, quality, and brand management.
The team oversees supplier projects and collaborates with the Branded Innovation team to bring new external brands to Waitrose shelves under "Brands New".
This is a Brand New vacancy reporting to the Head of Own Brand, Central Ops.
You will set the strategic direction for packaging development and lead a team of four direct reports.
- Contract type: Permanent
- Working pattern: Hybrid work arrangement (office and home).
Central teams are expected to be in person more often; typical expectation is three days per week in the office, with flexibility for supplier visits, industry meetings, time in shops, and office time.
Overseas travel may be required.
- Location: Bracknell
- Interviews: Two-stage process (CV review; in-person interview at Bracknell campus, likely Fri 14th August)
Key Responsibilities
- Set the strategic direction for packaging development to maintain a market-leading, sustainable, and differentiated position for Waitrose.
- Act as the packaging Centre of Expertise, translating global trends, customer insights, and legislation into actionable Own Brand material and format strategies.
- Lead a team of packaging specialists to identify and implement innovative packaging solutions that deliver commercial value and support Ethics & Sustainability targets.
- Integrate packaging early in the New Product Development (NPD) process and ensure the Waitrose First culinary vision is presented in functional, cost-effective, and safe prototypes.
- Provide strategic oversight to navigate regulatory landscapes (e. g., Extended Producer Responsibility) to protect the partnership and strengthen our reputation as an innovator.
Essential skills / experience
- Extensive experience in a strategic packaging role within a retail or FMCG environment.
- Proven track record of delivering complex sustainability or material-change programs.
- Experience in leading and developing high-performing specialist teams.
Desirable skills / experience
- Active participation in industry committees or trade bodies (e. g., BSI, WRAP).
- Additional Details
- Job level: Partnership Level 5
- Hours of Work: 35
- Where You'll Be Working: Bracknell Campus, Doncastle Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YA
- Closing Date: 27 July 2026
- About the
Partnership: We are the largest employee-owned business in the UK and home of John Lewis and Waitrose.
We focus on retail excellence, innovation, and ethical practices, and we operate with a culture of ownership and inclusion.
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Packaging Innovation and Delivery Manager in Bracknell employer: PVH (Tommy Hilfiger/Calvin Klein)
Intapp is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration within the accounting and consulting sectors across EMEA. With a strong commitment to employee growth, Intapp provides ample opportunities for professional development and leadership coaching, ensuring that team members thrive in their careers while contributing to the company's strategic vision. The culture is built on accountability and high performance, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving industry.
Contact Details:
PVH (Tommy Hilfiger/Calvin Klein) Recruitment Team
