DescriptionThe
CFI Director - Pulp & Paper leads Sabert's pulp and paper technical innovation agenda, developing new platforms and products, advancing barrier/coating technologies, and improving performance, sustainability, and manufacturability of molded fiber and paper solutions. The role owns the Pulp & Paper technical portfolio from concept to commercialization through Sabert's stage-gate governance, partnering cross-functionally to deliver growth and margin expansion while meeting food contact, performance, and environmental standards.
Job Responsibilities: - Define and execute Sabert's pulp and paper innovation strategy aligned with growth and sustainability goals
- Lead development of new molded fiber and paperboard solutions, including high-heat, sealable, and barrier-enhanced technologies
- Drive end-to-end product development from concept through pilot and full-scale commercialization using stage-gate processes
- Advance barrier coatings, laminations, and material technologies to improve performance and differentiation
- Oversee R&D labs, pilot trials, and testing standards (TAPPI, ASTM, food-contact compliance)
- Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Commercial, Marketing, and Procurement to bring innovations to market
- Support manufacturing scale-up and define critical process parameters for successful production
- Lead sustainability initiatives including fiber sourcing (FSC/PEFC), recyclability, composability, and lifecycle assessments
- Build and develop a high-performing technical team while managing budgets, capital projects, and innovation pipelines
Qualifications: Required:- BS or equivalent degree in Paper Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
- 10-15+ years in pulp/paper or molded fiber packaging R&D with proven commercialization record
- Expertise in forming processes, barrier coatings/laminations, and converting
- Strong command of material testing (TAPPI/ASTM), food-contact compliance, and reliability engineering
- Demonstrated leadership in stage-gate, portfolio management, and cross-functional program delivery
- Experience with sustainability frameworks (FSC/PEFC, recyclability/composability claims, LCA)
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Preferred- Experience in sustainable packaging or related industries.
- Background in supply chain, operations, or manufacturing processes.
- Familiarity with Lean or continuous improvement methodologies
Skills & Competencies - Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and influencing abilities across all organizational levels
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Passion for sustainability and innovation in packaging solution
