Senior NPD Packaging Developer

Senior NPD Packaging Developer

Kinnerton Confectionery, Fakenham (Norfolk)

Are you an innovative thinker with a passion for packaging design? We're looking for a Senior Packaging Developer to lead the creation of cutting-edge packaging solutions for our chocolate products. In this role, you'll collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to bring innovative packaging ideas to life, ensuring our products stand out on the shelf and delight our customers. 

As a Senior NPD Packaging Developer at Kinnerton Confectionery, you will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to innovate and develop packaging solutions, manage packaging projects, ensure timely product development, and oversee technical approvals. Your responsibilities will include sourcing materials, conducting factory trials, supporting supply routes, and ensuring all packaging meets business, environmental, and retailer requirements.

Monday - Friday (typically 08:30 - 16:30 per day).  

• Work with internal and external stakeholders to deliver innovative development of the packaging solutions used by Kinnerton.
• Manage specific packaging development project activities aligned to Kinnerton business requirements.
• Ensure availability of samples and information relevant to these materials to meet product development deadlines.
• Identify and develop potential new materials and/or supplier capabilities.
• Deliver timely execution of factory trials to support product development and launch.
• Support the generation of product information, specifications, and packing disciplines.
• Manage transit test activity and approvals with the NPD Manager.
• Approve artwork technically, including final sign-off of technical (but not legal) content to the printer, and approval of packaging at Goods Inwards to final approved artwork.
• Be based in Fakenham but able to travel as required.
• Support Press Pass approvals as required.
• Support the Far East supply route and approve the functionality of imported packaging and components.
• Ensure the supply of new and improved packaging to satisfy the functional needs of future business requirements.
• Identify and satisfy the packaging materials performance requirements of the Brand teams, including timely sourcing of trial materials when required.
• Successfully manage factory trial activity on packaging projects and liaise with the development team to ensure alignment of packaging and product development.
• Conduct technical assessment and approval of new packaging specifications prior to approval.
• Deliver packaging solutions to retailer requirements (shelf depths, handling weights, etc.).
• Provide final approval of pre-press artworks and approve packaging delivered for release as GOOD for use.
• Ensure all packaging aligns with business environmental requirements.
• Support the Senior Packaging Technologist.
• Source and deliver trial materials that are both functional and fit for use.
• Liaise with suppliers and communicate functional requirements of materials.
• Record packaging waste information.

• Strong background in packaging, with NVQ3/4 (or equivalent) in packaging technology, design, manufacturing engineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in packaging development.
• Exceptional workload management skills.
• Naturally inquisitive with a willingness to seek out innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Open, honest, and trustworthy.
• Able to work independently and take initiative.
• Keen eye for detail.
• Effective team player.
• Proficient in computer literacy, particularly Adobe Illustrator.
• Experience in packaging management within the FMCG sector.
• Skilled in project management.
• Operational and machine-related experience.
• Previous experience with artwork approval systems.

• A supportive and inclusive work environment where your ideas and contributions are valued.
• Company Pension Scheme and Life Assurance: Enjoy the security of a pension scheme and life assurance at x4 basic salary.
• Company-Paid Health Care Cash Plan: Access to a comprehensive Health Care Cash Plan through Paycare, with additional rewards for high street and retailer discounts. 
• Generous Annual Leave: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays  
• Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Charity Involvement: Engage in charity fundraising and team events, with an extra day of paid leave for charity/community work.
• Staff Shop Discounts: Access exclusive discounts through our staff shops.
• Employee Values Awards: Recognize and celebrate our team's dedication.
• Referral Bonus Vouchers: Benefit from referral bonuses for bringing in top talent
• Training and Development Opportunities: Invest in your growth with ongoing training and development.
• Bespoke Training for New Factory Workers: Tailored training to ensure a seamless integration.
• Free Parking: Enjoy hassle-free parking at all our manufacturing sites and offices.
• Excellent Facilities: Relish in top-notch facilities, including a well-appointed canteen.
• ESG Commitment: Be part of our ongoing commitment to our ESG strategy, focused on protecting our people, communities, and the planet.
• Access to Grocery Aid Charity Support: Avail assistance through Grocery Aid, supporting our community and promoting well-being.