Founded in 2003 Wasabi's vision is to lovingly create and serve delicious Asian food for a busy nation.
Wasabi now has 41 thriving restaurants across London and major UK cities and 4 in New York and in 2019, we introduced Wasabi Home Bento the grocery channel, launching exclusively in Sainsbury’s. Building on that success, the grocery business broadened its reach to Tesco in September 2022, followed by exciting launches in Co-op and Morrisons in 2024. Wasabi grocery has seen phenomenal growth and is now a £62m RSV brand. Wasabi proudly stands as the No. 2 chilled ready-meal brand in the market, consistently attracting new customers to the category through an innovative East Asian range.
Wasabi’s menu is celebrated for its unique character, exceptional freshness, and bold flavours. Our diverse range is designed to delight a wide audience, delivering both comfort and excitement with every bite.
We have an ambitious 5-year growth strategy, focusing on new restaurants, franchise partnerships, and international expansion.
As we prepare for our next phase of growth and innovation, we have an incredibly exciting opportunity for a Food Packaging Development Manager to join our Food Team based in Park Royal.
The Role
This is a key role, responsible for developing and executing the packaging strategy for Wasabi products in our restaurant and grocery channels, aligned to our ESG ambitions. The incumbent will lead all packaging development requirements, working cross functionally with the Food Development, Technical and Manufacturing teams and with external partners.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the packaging strategy and policy in line with ESG commitments and sustainability goals.
- Define the key criteria that shape Wasabi’s packaging identity and ethos.
- Continue to drive the ESG strategy as new materials and recycling methods emerge.
- Take responsibility for any statutory reporting relating to packaging
- Lead packaging development projects, ensuring compliance with business objectives, operational needs, and regulatory standards.
- Manage and deliver packaging development based on briefs from the Food, ESG, Marketing, and Operations teams.
- Proactively identify and initiate “blue sky” packaging projects through industry networks, legislative updates, and conferences - creating a pipeline of innovation beyond the standard briefing process.
- Support Engineering and Process teams to develop packaging and machinery solutions that improve efficiency and quality.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Technical, Procurement, Marketing, Operations - restaurants and Central Production Unit (CPU) - and the Food team. Act as the central subject matter expert on packaging, sustainability, and innovation.
- Act as the first point of contact for restaurant and CPU teams on packaging-related issues.
- Support Procurement in cost optimization, supplier selection, and relationship management.
- Monitor market trends, legislation, and technological advances to drive continuous improvement.
- Stay ahead of developments in packaging materials and recycling methods.
- Attend industry events, webinars, and trade shows to maintain knowledge leadership.
- Ensure compliance with EPR, PRN, and ESG reporting requirements; maintain accurate data and use insights to optimise packaging decisions.
- Promote packaging as a key customer touchpoint and integral part of the Wasabi brand experience.
- Support smooth product launches through effective packaging trials and testing.
- Drive improvements in specifications, print management, and supplier performance.
- Build packaging knowledge across the wider team to strengthen business-wide expertise.
Our Requirements
- Extensive FMCG packaging development experience, ideally with exposure to both foodservice and retail environments.
- Strong industry networks, with the ability to leverage contacts for innovation and best practice.
- In-depth understanding of sustainability, ESG principles, and packaging regulations.
- Degree educated, with professional qualifications such as IOP certification or Degree-level Apprenticeship in Packaging Professional.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Strong planning, organisational, and commercial acumen.
- Proven ability to manage cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders.
- People management experience desirable, with the capability to develop and mentor others
- A great working environment
- Refer A Friend Scheme
- Free Sushi or hot food (vegan options available)
- 50% discount in our Branches
- Employee Assistant Programme
- Long Service Awards
- Wagestream - a financial wellbeing benefit that lets you access your pay as you earn it in real time and manage savings
- Life Assurance
- Electric Vehicle Scheme through Octapus
- Cycle To Work
- Free on-site parking
- A variety of discounts (shopping, food & drink, entertainment and health & fitness) through Perkbox
- The opportunity to develop your skills within a growing company.
Our people make us who we are. Join a company where you’ll have the opportunity to work for a growing company and build a real career.
COME ROLL WITH US!
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Food Packaging Development Manager employer: Wasabi Sushi & Bento
Wasabi Sushi & Bento is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and innovation in the fast-paced QSR industry. Located in Park Royal, employees benefit from a supportive environment that encourages professional growth through training and development opportunities, alongside competitive benefits that reflect our commitment to staff well-being and satisfaction. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences while advancing your career in marketing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Packaging Development Manager
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Wasabi Sushi & Bento.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Wasabi Sushi & Bento!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Wasabi Sushi & Bento, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Wasabi Sushi & Bento, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Wasabi Sushi & Bento.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Wasabi Sushi & Bento. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Wasabi Sushi & Bento. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wasabi Sushi & Bento
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Wasabi Sushi & Bento’s mission.
