OVERVIEW

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos, Airheads, Dentyne, Trident and Bubblicious!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Packaging Development Supervisor, Rockford to join our growing team.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The Packaging Development Supervisor will lead PVM Rockford (RFD) import and export packaging development. The PDS will manage & develop the technical packaging team in the local OC to ensure the development and implementation of all packaging changes. They will be responsible for packaging technology strategy to define what technologies are invested in to deliver current and future business needs. Additionally, they will partner with all functions and other regions to deliver innovation portfolio and partners with SC to define the Supplier Strategy to ensure that supplier selection will meet business requirements (reliable supply, quality, performance, costs, technical capability, ability to deliver agile innovation). Additional responsibilities include:

• Define strategy to deliver on going current business support for manufacturing and strategy to deliver multi-year cost savings plans to reduce manufacturing gross margin and total packaging costs.
• Lead integration strategy for ERL Packaging Development to leverage scale, streamline complexity, quickly implement best practices to improve results and costs.
• Lead multiple key initiatives such as innovation, cost savings, sustainability, and process improvement are critical for this role.
• Responsible for representing PVM with packaging suppliers to address project, consumer, manufacturing, and transportation requirements (technology deliverables, quality, functionality, reliability). Will lead difficult discussions with suppliers regarding gaps in performance and insufficient delivery on commitments and will lead technical discussions on gap closing plans with suppliers to align on corrective actions.
• Provides all packaging updates for the local OC leadership team on all project updates and on margin improvement status. Shares packaging strategies with Leadership Team and multifunctional business teams for alignment.
• Collaborates with multifunctional teams to evaluate and improve critical company processes (e.g., New Product Development process, New Co-packer start-up, Packaging Rationalization, Sustainability, etc.) and on project status/progress including resolving timing conflicts in proactive, collaborative approach.
• Packaging supplier issue resolution – Partnering with SC to identify the ideal packaging supply to deliver reliable quality supply & optimized costs; process is in the process of being identified but constant supply issues (natural disaster, tariffs on imports, etc.) results in need to be agile in ability to problem solve for alternative supply solutions
• Oversee one Packaging Engineer.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in CPG company; experience includes managing & coaching others in packaging development, leading multifunctional teams in delivering current business results and innovation projects, cost innovation/savings projects, working in global network in order to progress innovation, and experience with managing resources in multiple regions.
• Minimum 1-3 years of team leadership preferred; (see above for specifics).
• Experience with artwork processes associated with printed packaging which includes:
• Strong knowledge of color and ways to measure
• Understanding of Flexographic, Rotogravure, Digital and Offset print processes
• Technical expertise in all materials traditionally used for CPG items.
• High level of management and interpersonal skills with ability to manage others with technical backgrounds; train, mentor, and support department members.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities and set priorities for team.
• Strong Project Management skills and ability to lead multifunctional team to deliver projects and identify & resolve issues.
• Experienced leader in working within global network and leading teams with members in multiple regions.
• Software proficiency: MS Office; competent user of AutoCAD, ArtiosCAD (or equivalent), CAPE (or equivalent), ESKO project management.
• In depth knowledge of performance testing and evaluation (ASTM and ISTA).

WHAT WE OFFER

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:

• PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and pay it forward time off
• 13 paid holidays
• 401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country
• Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases
• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Annual Well-Being subsidy
• Maternity & Paternity leave options
• Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement
• Tuition-Free College Program
• Modest monthly candy allotment (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos)

Join a 2024 NKY Best Workplace by applying today!

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.