SummaryThis role will be responsible for organizing, planning, managing and executing packaging Innovation, development and cost reduction projects across Retail, In-Store Bakery, and Foodservice businesses. This individual will work with project teams to investigate and recommend materials, processes, innovation, packaging, and equipment to bring assigned project successfully to market. The individual in this role will also support Supply Chain and BU function in manufacturing of packages that meet customer and consumer expectation for character, cost, and quality across various product categories.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Support assigned business/product lines with all package development needs
- Manage multiple packaging development, technical application, and cost reduction projects and/or programs
- Lead assigned resources in problem identification and problem resolution to facilitate new or improved packages, packaging upgrades, new or improved processes and cost savings
- Coordinate and execute experiments, as well as plant trials; prepare results in technical reports, both written and oral, for review with minimal supervision
- Work as a cross functional resource with Business Units, Insights/Innovation, Supply Chain Engineering, Product Development R&D, and Procurement to develop new packaging platforms to support product innovation
- Provide technical support to project teams to solve manufacturing problems
- Assure all projects are seen through to completion including documentation and protection of intellectual property as well as development and issuing of technical specifications, Bill of Materials, and relevant packaging documentation.
- Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with operations/divisional management and external customers
- Leverage external vendors and work directly with procurement
- Maintain awareness of technical trends and developments in the packaging industry
- Perform all activities in a safe manner and within the context of all Sara Lee Frozen Bakery safety protocols
The position responsibilities outlined above are not to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties and responsibilities may be required and/or assigned as necessary.Knowledge and Skill Requirements- Bachelor's or Master's degree Packaging Engineering or related field
- Minimum of 5 years work experience in packaging or engineering industry, CPG preferred
- Understanding of product and packaging interactions, sustainability, food protections and packaging tests
- Understanding of packaging equipment, packaging processes and ability to work with supply chain engineering on capital projects involving packaging solutions
- Basic computer skills required; competence in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; familiarity with Cape, Tops, ArtiosCad, CAD, etc.
- Strong verbal/written communication skills
- Ability to work independently, self-starter, as well as good teamwork skills and ability to foster cross-functional partnerships
- Strong analytical and logical problem- solving skills; trouble shooting skills with the ability to "think on their feet"
- Ability to manage multiple projects on an ongoing basis, executing with excellence
- Ability to work in food allergen areas (Nuts, Dairy, Egg, etc.)
- Ability to travel 25 - 35% of the time
