Manager, R&D - Packaging Dev

Job Description

Manager, R&D – Packaging Development

Job Description

This role leads packaging development for the Away From Home  business, shaping practical, effective packaging solutions that balance technical rigor, business needs, and operational feasibility. It is a managerial and technical role within Research & Development Packaging, with direct leadership responsibility for packaging developers and potential oversight of contractors.

The person in this role willbe responsible for developing and executing work plans, driving results across a range of initiatives, and leading packaging development from concept through commercialization. Success requires strong technical depth, sound judgment, and the ability to translate scientific learning and statistical analysis into practical business solutions.

This roleoperatesin a dynamic, cross-functional environment and calls forstrong communication, teamwork, andpeopleleadership. The candidate must be able to manage multiple priorities with minimal guidance, solve technical packaging challenges, and lead with a collaborative, results-oriented mindset.

• Directly lead a team of Packaging developers and potentially contractors
• Lead packaging development and commercialization of materials and packaging systems to deliver short- and long-term business objectives
• Manage technical timelines, communicate progress clearly, elevate risks, and develop contingency plans using strong project management discipline
• Identify, define, and solve technical packaging challenges that meet both operational and customer requirements
• Ensure packaging solutions are feasible, manufacturable, and fit for purpose, particularly in food service formats
• Leadand/or support developers who areleadingpackaging testing, qualification, and commercialization in partnership with cross-functional teams across lab and production environments
• Manage and develop junior team members through development plans,workload balancing, and team effectiveness
• Influence project direction in collaboration with Operations, Marketing, and other cross-functional partners
• Understand and be fluent in day-to-day commercialization systems,routinesandways of working
• Translate research findings and test results into clear business implications, including the “why” behind recommendations and the expected impact

• BS or MS in Packaging, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 6 years of relevant packaging developmentexperiencewithin CPG, food and beverage, or related industry;or master’s degree plus a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or PhD plus a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated ability to lead,coachand motivate others
• Prior people management experience preferred
• Proven ability to lead and execute technically complex packaging projects
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, equipment,material interactions, and packaging laboratory test methods
• Excellent communication, influencing,critical thinking,project management,and problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to independently manage multiple projects concurrently with the ability to prioritize effectively
• Strong understanding of Design of Experiment sand statistical analysis
• Willingness to travel up to 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.

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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

Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and savingfor 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…