Sr Manager, R&D – Packaging Dev
This position is a technical and managerial role, responsible for creating and driving technical projects and demonstrating leadership within the packaging function of the business. This candidate should also have a proven record of executing work plans and driving for results in a variety of settings. This includes analyzing data, drawing conclusions, documenting, and communicating results. Proven communication, teamwork, and people development skills are essential in this role, which operates in a cross-functional environment.
Candidate will be responsible for not only packaging development, but collaborating with Business Unit Partners and cross functional peers to build yearly business plans aligned with KraftHeinz strategy where packaging will/can be influential. Candidate will be responsible for collaborating with cross functional network to help build a robust pipeline of Innovation, New Product Development, Brand Maintenance, and Value Engineering projects. In addition, candidate will be consulted for trouble shooting, collaborating with manufacturing facilities, quality and equipment vendors.
Key Components of the role
Building 1yp with Business Unit Partners
Understanding of consumer behaviors relative to brand portfolio and translate understanding to meaningful packaging solutions
Translating strategy and brand role/guardrails into execution plans and needs with Platform Innovation leader
Independently lead packaging development and commercialization of material and packaging systems to deliver against short and long term business objectives
Manage technical timelines, provide timely communication, raise issues and risks, and develop contingency plans leveraging strong project management skills
Coordinate and conduct functional testing including lab testing, plant trials, package qualifications
Responsible for identifying, defining, and solving technical packaging challenges
Collaborate and partners with suppliers to identify new technology opportunities, optimizing the utilization of Kraft Heinz and supplier resources and tools
Elevate the competence and know-how of junior developers through training, coaching, and external networking
Establish self as a technical subject matter expert in packaging materials, applications, testing and problem-solving
Management of junior staff including creation of development plans, building teamwork, and balancing of workload to help deliver in-year and pipeline projects
Strategic project influence in collaboration with OPS and marketing.
Help plan and execute budget needs for technical and capital execution
Be consumer driven and elevate Innovative Packaging to help solve consumer pain points
Self motivating with a sense of urgency to prioritize against KraftHeinz’s overall strategic path, both within the role and from a broader company delivery
Understand and be fluent in day to day routines and systems for commercialization
Drive engagement for respective team while partnering with peers
Qualifications
BS, MS, or PhD in Packaging, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering
Minimum 7 yrs packaging development experience in the food or consumer products industry
Proven ability to lead and execute technical complex packaging projects
Experience with rigid plastics, flexible and semi-rigid films, tray sealing, and MAP packaging is desired.
Ability to lead, coach and motivate others
Excellent communication, influencing, and problem solving skills
Able to manage multiple assignments/tasks concurrently with the ability to prioritize work
Ability to apply processes and improve with recommendation where needed
Strong understanding of Design of Experiments
Willingness to travel 30%
Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz’ strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$118,400.00 – $148,000.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You’ll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
Physical – Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
Social – Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability
Location(s)
Glenview R&D Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.