Packaging Driver

POSITION SUMMARY

The Package Driver leads the client’s internal stakeholders, strategic partners, SGK, printers, and suppliers to manage & execute all labeling and artwork changes. Proactively solves challenges that occur throughout projects and the packaging supply chain. Monitors and communicates project milestones and progress to ensure projects are executed on time, right the first time and within budget. Partners and consults to identify and resolve project issues; resolves the most complex problems using strong technical and category knowledge. The position will require project management, communication, and organizational skills, along with the basic knowledge of packaging production including but not limited to design, production art, prepress and printing. This position is client facing and will collaborate across multiple stakeholders both internally and externally within the client’s network and will be the designated point of contact in the packaging development process.

The Package Driver will work with cross-functional teams in the development of project scope and related timelines which meet the goals and priorities of the project. Functional areas include Key Management, Marketing, Regulatory, SGK Internal Operations, Commercial, Technology and Production site team members, Suppliers, Printers.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works with cross-functional teams in the development of project scope and related timelines which meet the goals and priorities of the project.  
• Facilitates inputs required for the creative development with brand design agencies for packaging design projects on time and within the brand’s budget from category audit through initial design concept to handoff to agency partners.
• Monitors production art development from agency handoff through & including final materials.
• Facilitates resolution of art file or printing issues with supplier/printer.
• Leads all design extensions & adaptations across multiple structures and substrates for optimal design and print production results.
• Communicates and manages print process with printer and design agencies.
• Leads all design extensions & adaptations across multiple structures and substrates for optimal design and print production results.
• Develops, communicates, and manages project priorities, timelines and status to internal and external partners.
• Resolves or assists in the resolution of issues within and between projects or team; develops methods to monitor artwork project progress and resolve issues as necessary.
• Follows up to ensure that deliverables meet or exceed expectations.
• Ensures that risk assessment and contingency planning (for relevant projects) takes place, is communicated and agreed upon by all core team members and is acted on if necessary to keep the project on track or to escalate any unresolved issues.
• Ensures compliance to processes and establishes discipline to standardized ways of working.
• Manages every portion of the approval process between internal and external partners, ensures alignment at every step of the design and activation process.
• Collects packaging project inputs; partners with stakeholders to secure and validate the necessary inputs to effectively execute the project.
• Provides technical consultation to the Product Teams to ensure efficient & effective packaging production.
• Plans, directs, and coordinates activities of employee(s) to ensure goals or objectives are accomplished.  Mentors, coaches, trains and develops team.
• Additional duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Graphic Arts, Marketing, Advertising, or related field
• Advanced degree (MBA, Master’s) preferred
• 6+ years previous project management experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Occasional travel either locally, nationally, and/or internationally may be required.
• High degree of proficiency MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills (including analysis, interpretation, & reasoning)
• Solid understanding and application of mathematical concepts
• Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with peers and colleagues across the organization, as well as, internal and external clients
• Ability to work well autonomously and within a team in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
• Ability to work with and influence peers and senior management
• Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting

PHYSICAL ASPECTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Regularly required to stand; walk; sit; and talk, hear and see.  
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. 

* Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.