Manager - Packaging Engineering

The Packaging Engineering Manager executes the packaging engineering strategies in designing, developing, and implementing innovative packaging solutions that ensure product protection, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. This role oversees the end-to-end packaging development process, collaborating closely with product design, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality teams to meet functional, regulatory, and environmental requirements. The manager drives continuous improvement initiatives, manages packaging projects, and aligns packaging strategies with business goals to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and support overall product success.

The ideal candidate brings a strategic thought process, digital transformation, strong team builder, and motivator with excellent communication capabilities both above and below his grade.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, validation, and implementation of scalable packaging systems for global automotive programs.
• Manage cross-functional packaging initiatives across engineering, logistics, manufacturing, and suppliers.
• Drive standardization and continuous improvement of packaging processes and materials.
• Oversee packaging specifications, documentation, and compliance with industry standards.
• Utilize PackAssistant or equivalent software to simulate and optimize packaging density and logistics efficiency.
• Benchmark industry best practices and integrates innovative packaging technologies.
• Support new product launches and engineering changes with robust packaging strategies.
• Develop and manage packaging budgets, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Ensure packaging solutions meet regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements.
• Collaborate with procurement and suppliers to source cost-effective and sustainable materials.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for packaging-related issues in production or logistics.
• Train and mentor packaging engineers and support staff.

Skills

• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, global environment.
• High attention to detail and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices and circular economy principles in packaging.
• Comfortable working with cross-functional teams and managing stakeholder expectations.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to align packaging initiatives with broader business goals.
• Experience in building and leading high-performing, cross-functional teams.
• Strong decision-making capabilities under pressure and in ambiguous situations.
• Ability to influence and drive change across departments and external partners.
• Skilled in coaching, mentoring, and developing talent within the team.
• Effective conflict resolution and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.