Packaging Developer in Kettering

At Weetabix, we believe that diverse teams drive better ideas, stronger decisions, and a more inclusive workplace for everyone. We are committed to building an organisation where people from all walks of life feel they belong, where different voices, experiences, and backgrounds are valued and respected.

Closing date: Tuesday 23rd June

Interview process: Two Stage Interview Process

Working pattern: We bring everyone together on Weetabix Wednesday - a great opportunity to collaborate, connect and catch up in person. As part of our hybrid approach, you will spend three days a week in the office, with flexibility built in to support individual needs. We are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process; just let us know how we can support you.

The Recipe (About the Role)

The Packaging Developer designs and delivers robust, compliant, sustainable, and commercially viable packaging solutions for Weetabix and customer brands. They ensure all packaging types meet consumer, customer, brand, operational, and regulatory standards from concept to launch. Operating in a modern FMCG environment, the role applies technical expertise, design thinking, and data to create future-ready packaging as the company grows and adopts new technologies.

• Packaging Development & Delivery: Develop packaging solutions (primary to tertiary) for new products and renovations, ensuring alignment with brand, consumer, technical, regulatory, and cost requirements. Provide packaging options, prototypes, and technical input throughout New Product Development (NPD). Create and maintain accurate packaging specifications.
• Technical Trials & Validation: Lead packaging trials including preparation of TP codes, briefs, and documentation. Work with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Capability teams to validate packaging performance and resolve issues. Document and communicate trial outcomes, risks, and corrective actions.
• Quality, Sustainability & Compliance: Ensure packaging meets quality standards, regulatory requirements, and sustainability commitments. Own continuous sustainability improvements aligned with environmental goals. Stay updated on packaging legislation, recyclability, and material compliance (UK & EU FMCG standards).
• Supplier & External Engagement: Engage with suppliers on technical matters to support innovation, troubleshooting, and commercial/sustainability objectives. Monitor emerging packaging technologies and share insights with the team.
• Project Management & Teamwork: Manage packaging workstreams within the stage-gate process to ensure timely delivery of milestones. Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Procurement, Quality, Manufacturing, and Engineering. Support the Packaging Development Manager on value engineering, sustainability initiatives, and business support.

The Ingredients (What we need from you)

• Experience in packaging development within FMCG, food, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Good technical knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and performance requirements.
• Understanding of packaging sustainability principles and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience running packaging trials and resolving technical challenges.
• Ability to create and manage packaging specifications.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstration of commercial acumen, critical thinking and ability to analyse and interpret data.
• Leads with a growth mindset.

Your Bowl of Perks (Benefits)

• Competitive Salary & Annual Flexible benefits.
• Annual bonus.
• Double-matched pension scheme (up to 12% from us).
• 25 days annual leave increasing with service.
• Annual Salary review.
• Healthcare plan.
• Discounted Weetabix products.

To support our employees, we also offer:

• Continued investment in your personal development.
• We believe in balance, whether it's for family, rest or simply time for you. As well as your holiday entitlement, you can purchase up to 5 days of additional annual leave.
• Access to 24/7 counselling service (via Grocery Aid partnership).
• The freedom of Flexible Work Opportunities.
• Enhanced Maternity / Paternity / Adoption Leave.
• Additional Time Off for Fertility Treatment and Neonatal Care.
• Working Parents Support Group.
• Fully stocked kitchens filled with our delicious products for you to enjoy.

To learn more about life at Weetabix, visit our careers page.

Please note: We benchmark roles based on your skills and experience, so we do not advertise fixed salary ranges. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship for this position; therefore, we are seeking candidates who do not require sponsorship.