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The Assistant Packaging Development Manager will lead end-to-end packaging projects for the Home & Hygiene portfolio—owning delivery of innovation, renovation, sustainability, and supply chain support initiatives. The role combines strong project management, technical ownership, and cross-functional leadership to deliver solutions that meet Unilever standards on quality, safety, compliance, sustainability, and value.
Job Responsibility:
Own the end-to-end plan (scope, critical path, risks, resources) and drive OTIF delivery for assigned projects (multi-brand/format)
Lead cross-functional routines (R&D, Supply Chain, Procurement, Quality, Marketing) and ensure decision-readiness at project gates
Define & maintain specifications for finished goods and materials: flexible packaging, rigid plastics, corrugated carton board, and sustainability-related materials
Troubleshoot issues (machinability, sealing, COF, transit damage, leakage, delamination) and close with data-backed actions
Plan & execute factory trials, line validations, transit tests, and material qualifications across sites, with complete technical documentation
Lead risk assessment & mitigation
secure stakeholder signoffs for commercialization
Review and approve local language artworks based on packaging specifications, technical requirements, and local regulatory compliance
Ensure all artworks align with Unilever packaging standards and are fully executable in manufacturing without errors
Identify and qualify alternative materials and suppliers to ensure performance, quality, sustainability, and cost targets are achieved
Deliver the category’s sustainability agenda including PCR adoption, recyclability design, lightweighting, mono-material conversion, and other eco-design initiatives
Drive value creation through validated material optimization, design-to-value, and supplier capability building
Manage external partners (suppliers, labs, 3PM) to hit timeline, quality, and cost targets
Influence stakeholders through data-driven recommendations and clear communication
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Packaging Technology, Material Science, or related fields
≥4 years relevant experience in FMCG preferably in R&D Packaging Development with proven end-to-end project leadership
Proficient in English (spoken & written)
Proven ability to work independently, manage complex timelines, and handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Strong understanding of flexible packaging, rigid plastics, corrugated carton board, and sustainability packaging technologies (PCR, recyclability, lightweighting, mono-material)
Hands-on experience in factory trials, qualification, specification governance, transport testing, root cause analysis, and CAPA
Good digital literacy in packaging tools: AutoCAD, Microsoft Project, CAPE Pack, or similar software
Strong project management capability with structured execution, risk management, and cross-functional alignment
Demonstrated agility, growth mindset, problem-solving skills, and a strong bias for action
Strong analytical thinking with structured approach to validation and decision making
Excellent communication, collaboration, and influencing skills across internal teams and external suppliers