About the Role:We are seeking a highly organized and creative Packaging & Trim Design Manager to lead the design, development, sourcing, and execution of all product-specific packaging and trims across the Lola portfolio.
The Packaging & Trim Design Manager will own the end-to-end process for packaging and trims, from initial concept and design through sourcing, development, testing, approval, and production readiness. This role sits at the intersection of Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Brand Marketing, and Sourcing, ensuring that every customer touchpoint reflects the brand's premium positioning while meeting operational, quality, and cost objectives.
The ideal candidate combines strong creative sensibilities with exceptional project management skills and deep experience managing packaging and trim development within a fast-growing DTC consumer brand.
This role requires a highly detail-oriented individual who can successfully manage multiple initiatives simultaneously across New Product Introduction (NPI), seasonal launches, collaborations, and fast-track development calendars.
Core Responsibilities- Lead the design and development of all product-specific packaging and trims including but not limited to labels, trims, inserts, gifting components, belly bands, sleeves, hangtags, care labels, woven labels, embroidery applications, vessels, zipper pulls, polybags, gifting boxes and other branded elements.
- Partner closely with Design, Merchandising, and Brand Marketing teams to define project requirements and creative direction, and manage packaging and trim development from concept through production approval.
- Manage packaging and trim development calendars across NPI, seasonal, replenishment, and fast-track development programs.
- Ensure all packaging and trim elements align with brand standards, efficiency objectives, customer expectations, and business goals.
- Create and update packaging and trim tech packs, BOMs, specifications, material standards, artwork files, dielines, and approval records.
- Lead sample reviews and approval processes to ensure all components meet design intent, quality standards, and production requirements.
- Review and approve color standards, material submissions, strike-offs, proofs, and production samples.
- Lead packaging and trim review meetings as part of the overall product development process, communicating project status, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders and leadership teams.
- Identify new materials, finishes, structures, and packaging solutions, sourcing new vendors, materials, and capabilities to support product and brand growth.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all packaging and trim suppliers, managing communications related to development, costing, timelines, quality expectations, and approvals.
- Negotiate costs and development timelines and ensure vendors meet key milestone dates.
- Troubleshoot supplier issues and proactively resolve development challenges.
- Establish and support quality control processes for packaging and trims.
- Ensure all packaging and trim components meet quality, regulatory, and brand standards.
- Continuously evaluate opportunities to improve functionality, aesthetics, cost efficiency, and operational scalability.
Qualifications- 5+ years of experience in packaging design, trim development, packaging sourcing, product development, or related functions within a fast-growing DTC consumer brand.
- Experience managing packaging and trim programs across multiple product categories.
- Strong understanding of packaging materials, print processes, trim construction, manufacturing methods, and production requirements.
- Experience creating and managing BOMs, tech packs, specifications, artwork approvals, and quality standards.
- Proven ability to manage external suppliers and development partners.
- Strong project management skills with exceptional attention to detail and organizational rigor.
- Experience working cross-functionally with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Marketing, Operations, and Sourcing teams.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and PLM systems.
- Strong communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
- Bachelor's degree in Packaging Design, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Product Development, or related field preferred.
What We Offer:- Competitive base salary and annual bonus based on company and individual performance
- 21 days paid vacation + all federal holidays
- Full health benefits (health, dental, vision, mental)
- 16 weeks paid birth parent leave; 8 weeks non-birth parent leave
- 55% off Lola Blankets for friends and family
- Opportunities for career growth within Lola Blankets
