## Packaging Specialist Opportunity at Unilever: Innovate for a Sustainable Future
Are you a driven and innovative packaging professional looking to make a tangible impact on global brands? Unilever, a powerhouse in consumer goods with iconic brands like Dove, Lynx/Axe, and Sure/Rexona, is seeking a talented Packaging Specialist to join their dynamic Deodorants Category team in Leeds.
This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the entire lifecycle of packaging, from initial concept to final delivery, within a business unit dedicated to both consumer delight and planetary well-being. If you're passionate about sustainability, innovation, and driving excellence in packaging, this could be your next career move.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Impactful Role on Global Brands: You'll be instrumental in developing and delivering superior, sustainable, and affordable packaging solutions for some of the world's most recognized deodorant brands. Your work will directly influence shopper and consumer experiences.
- Focus on Sustainability and Innovation: This position is at the forefront of Unilever's commitment to reducing plastic and meeting ambitious sustainability targets. You'll be involved in projects that drive innovative packaging solutions, from advanced materials to novel product formats.
- End-to-End Project Ownership: As a Packaging Workstream Leader, you will manage packaging activities from inception to completion, gaining comprehensive experience across primary and secondary packaging, palletization, and customer-facing requirements.
- Collaborative and Cross-Functional Environment: You will build strong relationships with counterparts in supply chain, marketing, and technical teams, fostering a collaborative environment where your input is valued and crucial for project success.
- Career Development and Learning: Unilever offers opportunities for continuous learning and development, with the chance to become a super-user for digital systems and contribute to the advancement of the PC6 Packaging Group.
- Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary, Unilever provides a comprehensive package including an annual bonus, subsidized gym membership, a discounted staff shop, and share options, alongside a commitment to employee well-being and flexible working.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Technical Expertise is Crucial: A strong foundation in packaging development, including material specifications, testing protocols, and component qualification (e.g., aluminum cans, plastic components, secondary materials), is essential. Experience with plastics molding (injection and/or IBM) and assembly will be highly beneficial.
- Project Management Agility: The role involves managing multiple projects simultaneously, requiring excellent organizational skills, the ability to prioritize effectively, and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.
- Understanding of FMCG Landscape: While not always mandatory, prior experience in packaging development within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector is highly preferred, as it demonstrates an understanding of the industry's pace and demands.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The ability to measure parts, read technical drawings, understand tolerances, and analyze data to inform decisions is a key aspect of this role.
- Commitment to Sustainability: A genuine passion for environmental sustainability and an understanding of evolving market regulations and best practices in packaging are vital for success and alignment with Unilever's purpose.
- Adaptability and Travel: While the role is primarily based in Leeds, occasional business travel (around 5%) is expected, and flexibility for occasional out-of-hours work to complete trials may be necessary. A driving license is also preferred.
This Packaging Specialist role at Unilever is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious professional to shape the future of packaging within a leading global organization. If you possess the required skills and a passion for innovation and sustainability, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.