Packaging Project Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

The Packaging Project Manager is an unbiased functional owner; linkage to client private brands, internal partners, strategic design agencies, Schawk pre-press, printers and suppliers. Manages day to day responsibilities including the overall process and timeline, works proactively to help solve challenges that occur throughout the project, and develops strong client relationships. Partners and consults across the packaging development function to identify and resolve project issues; resolves the most complex problems using strong technical and category knowledge, and consumer insights.

The PPM is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of packaging development for packaging projects including New Innovation, Redesign, Line Extensions, and Maintenance for the client.  Monitors and communicates project milestones and progress to ensure projects are executed on time and within budget. The PPM is client facing and will collaborate across multiple stakeholders both internally and externally within the client network and will be the constant liaison in the packaging development process.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Partners with Business Center, FSQA, and Packaging team in the development of project scope and related timelines which meet the goals and priorities of the project.
• Responsible for the collection of packaging project inputs; partners with stakeholders to secure and validate the necessary inputs to effectively execute projects ranging from creative development to packaging production.
• Monitors production art development from design 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.
• When necessary, communicates and manages print process with printer and appropriate SGK personnel.
• Develops, communicates, and manages project, 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 the end-to-end process related to product packaging approval process between internal and external partners. Ensures all branding, nutrition, and regulatory requirements are reflected in product artwork while building alignment at every step of the design and activation process.
• Ensure suppliers are completing tasks and forms to the prescribed timelines.
• Ability to gain proficiency with SGK online tools and other tools and technology as required by the business.
• Continually seek out and recommend improvement opportunities that simplify or create efficiencies that address client needs and help drive the business forward.
• Additional duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Graphic Arts, Marketing, Advertising, or related field
• 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.