Packaging Development Technologist at PZ Cussons

Job Purpose

• We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Packaging Development Technologist to join our R&D team.
• This purpose of this role will be to work predominantly on the brands within the AFRICA Packaging Development Team’s remit including Venus, Premier, Stella, Robb, Cussons Baby and Morning Fresh.
• Future NPD is likely to include full packaging development for products within these brands that will be produced at PZ Cussons manufacturing sites.
• The role will also exist as a support function for the Africa Factory and Procurement Teams and will require flexibility to work across all PZ Cussons brands, thus enabling dynamic distribution of packaging development activity at peak times across the team.

Job Context & Scope

• This role involves developing, evaluating, and implementing packaging solutions that are functional, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. The ideal candidate will have a passion for technology and sustainability, with a keen eye for detail and a creative approach to problem-solving.

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Develop new packaging concepts that align with company objectives, customer needs, and sustainability goals. Working collaboratively with marketing and brand teams to execute packaging propositions effectively either via 3rd party manufacture or directly with a PZ Cussons manufacturing site.
• Collaborate with pack suppliers & 3rd party manufacturers to envision the future of innovation.
• Conduct feasibility studies and material testing to ensure packaging integrity, functionality, and compatibility with product and environmental requirements. Utilising 3rd party provision of testing when applicable and overseeing results and providing final approvals where necessary.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, marketing, supply chain, and 3rd party packaging & contract manufacture suppliers, to ensure seamless integration and scalability of packaging solutions.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements related to packaging materials and processes.
• Support packaging innovation projects, from ideation through to commercialization, ensuring timelines, budget, and quality standards are met.
• Update and maintain technical documentation, including specifications, testing protocols, and project reports.
• Support supply chain by implementing packaging improvements that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimise environmental impact at both our own factories and where products are produced by 3rd parties.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting expertise for packaging-related issues in production or quality issues seen in market.
• Partner with the regulatory team to ensure compliance with the appropriate Packaging Legislation

Criteria
Essential

• Numerate & Literate with Strong IT skills, Windows based.
• Proven history (3+ years) of R&D packaging development, preferably within the Beauty & Personal Care sector.
• High level understanding of packaging materials and formats used across the Beauty & Personal Care sector.
• In depth knowledge of Third-Party Beauty & Personal Care manufacturers, their capabilities and operations. Minimum 3 years’ experience.
• Familiarity with Packaging regulatory requirements for the Beauty & Personal Care sector.
• Excellent Organisational Skills. Ability to deliver multiple product development projects simultaneously and keep up to speed with fast moving communication.
• High attention to detail and ability to work accurately on important data sets.
• Ability to read and interpret technical packaging component drawings & specifications.
• Experience in Artwork analysis, including conformance checks and ability to use Artwork Management software tools.
• Comfortable using communication skills to influence stakeholders when required, including an ability to translate complex packaging concepts to non-technical stakeholders, sometimes in a group setting either remotely or in person.
• Passion for innovation and a demonstrated record of bringing new packaging to market from concept to commercialisation.
• A Sustainability champion, putting the environment at the centre of all packaging recommendations as a key consideration for all projects.

Educational Qualifications

• First Degree in Engineering or the Sciences, ideally in Chemical, Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science
• Post Graduate degree will be an added advantage