Packaging Specialist reference: R-1168722

This review provides insights into the Packaging Specialist role within Unilever's Deodorants Category, based at their Leeds Design Centre. It aims to guide potential candidates by highlighting the advantages of this opportunity and key considerations for their career development.

Opportunity Overview:

Unilever, a global leader in consumer goods, presents an exciting opportunity for a Packaging Specialist to join their Deodorants Business Unit. This role is integral to the innovation and delivery of packaging solutions for iconic brands like Sure/Rexona, Lynx/Axe, and Dove. You'll be at the forefront of developing packaging that not only meets consumer needs but also contributes to Unilever's ambitious sustainability goals.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Innovation: You will directly contribute to the end-to-end development of new and existing packaging technologies, influencing the shopper and consumer experience. Projects range from crucial sustainability initiatives, such as plastic reduction, to the development of innovative packaging formats.
• Brand Exposure: Work with globally recognized and beloved brands, establishing strong collaborative relationships with counterparts in supply chain and marketing. This exposure is invaluable for career growth.
• Sustainability Focus: This role offers a unique chance to be a key player in driving sustainable packaging solutions, aligning with global environmental targets and regulatory requirements. This is a significant advantage in today's conscious market.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: You'll represent the Business Unit Packaging team in projects, working closely with Technical Project Leaders and other functional leads. This fosters a broad understanding of project lifecycles and interdependencies.
• Technical Expertise Development: Gain in-depth experience in defining functional and material specifications, developing robust testing plans, and interpreting data to make informed recommendations. Specializations in areas like aluminium can qualification, plastic component development, and secondary materials will be honed.
• Global Reach, Local Impact: While part of a global organization, your work will directly impact the European supply chains and customers, ensuring efficient delivery of packaging solutions.
• Career Development & Learning: The role offers opportunities to become a super-user for digital systems relevant to packaging, contributing to the development of the wider packaging group and teams. Unilever's commitment to wellbeing, flexible working, and inclusive culture is also a significant benefit.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Scope of Responsibility: The role involves managing multiple projects simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize effectively.
• Technical Acumen: A strong foundation in packaging development, ideally within an FMCG environment, is essential. Experience with plastics moulding, measurement, technical drawings, and data analysis will be highly beneficial.
• Agility and Adaptability: Occasional travel (around 5%) and the possibility of out-of-hours work for trials are part of the role, demanding flexibility.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: You'll be responsible for identifying and managing risks, interpreting results, and making recommendations based on technical data.
• Communication Skills: Effective technical communication is crucial for collaborating with various stakeholders and contributing to decision-making processes.
• Career Path Alignment: This role is ideal for individuals with a background in industrial design, sciences, or engineering, who are ambitious, keen to learn, and aspire to leadership in packaging innovation and sustainability. It provides a solid platform to advance within a leading consumer goods company.

In summary, the Packaging Specialist role at Unilever offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for individuals passionate about innovation, sustainability, and brand development. It's an opportunity to make a tangible impact within a world-renowned organization while continuously expanding your technical and professional skill set.