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Manager, Packaging Development - Innovating Sustainable Packaging Solutions for a Global Beverage Leader

Remote, USA Full-time Posted 2025-11-03

Join Our Team: Revolutionizing Packaging Development

At The Coca-Cola Company, we're on a mission to refresh the world and make a difference. We're seeking a talented and experienced Manager, Packaging Development to join our Global Development and Innovation team. As a key member of our team, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of packaging for our iconic brands. If you're passionate about innovation, sustainability, and leadership, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

About Us

The Coca-Cola Company is a global beverage leader, operating in over 200 countries and employing hundreds of thousands of people around the world. Our portfolio includes some of the most recognizable brands in the world, from Coca-Cola to Fanta, Sprite, and many more. We're committed to making a positive impact on the communities we serve, and we're dedicated to sustainability in all aspects of our business, including packaging.

Job Overview

As Manager, Packaging Development, you'll be responsible for identifying and creating new packaging solutions that drive business growth, reduce environmental impact, and delight our consumers. You'll work closely with cross-functional teams, including Research to Experimentation Team, Operating Unit brand marketing teams, suppliers, bottlers, and other stakeholders to develop innovative packaging that aligns with our sustainability goals and business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

  • Technical Expertise: Build and manage the Package RDI Pipeline for a given Category, aligning with the strategic objectives of the Operating Unit. Manage large budgets, broad scopes, multiple suppliers, and/or team members from partner companies. Import and export best-in-class packaging ideas from other Operating Units or external partners.
  • Develop a deep understanding of packaging materials, production processes, and the related technical specifications. This includes knowledge of design development, material compatibility, material-machine interface, conversion processes, and supplier processes.
  • Scale new technology into a viable commercial proposition, from bench to plant.
  • Project Management: Manage priorities and guide planning processes to achieve desired outcomes. Create and manage overall project schedules by working with internal and external cross-functional team members, including bottling partners.
  • Technical Communication for Business Effectiveness: Disseminate key facts and present complex information in a concise and easily understood manner. Effectively document and communicate routine technical data within R&I and business teams.
  • Building a Business Case: Leverage influence and negotiation skills, paired with compelling scientific, consumer, and economic data, to create persuasive business cases for new packaging projects. Lead the technical portion of the business case development for routine projects.
  • Bringing Innovation to Market: Generate and translate innovative ideas into feasible, practical, and cost-effective packaging solutions. Utilize general technology and supply base knowledge to successfully bring innovations to market from inception to implementation using known technologies. Lead pilot and trial activities to validate new packaging concepts and ensure successful market introduction.

Qualifications and Skills

To succeed in this role, you'll need:

Essential Qualifications

  • A Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Material Science, or a related field. A post-graduate degree is preferred.
  • 5-7 years of previous experience in Packaging Development within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, preferably with experience in the beverage sector.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely.
  • Knowledge of packaging trends, consumer trends, and technical research methodologies.
  • Ability to work with external resources, including design agencies, consultants, universities, and suppliers, to drive innovation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a creative mindset to identify and develop innovative packaging solutions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a global packaging network and familiarity with the re-application of ideas within a large organization.
  • Change management and problem-solving skills.
  • Continuous improvement mindset and experience with sustainable packaging solutions.
  • Understanding of environmental impacts and commitment to sustainability.

Key Skills

  • Continual Improvement Process
  • Research and Development Operations
  • Design of Experiments (DOE)
  • Key Performance Indicators (KPI)
  • Food Processing and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
  • Project Budgeting and Cost Estimates
  • Change Management and Technical Documents
  • Six Sigma and Process Engineering

What We Offer

At The Coca-Cola Company, we're committed to making a positive impact on our employees, customers, and communities. As a Manager, Packaging Development, you'll enjoy:

  • A competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunities for career growth and development.
  • A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
  • Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance.
  • A chance to make a real difference in the world through innovative packaging solutions.

Our Culture

We're a company that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe in fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and respect. As a Manager, Packaging Development, you'll be part of a talented team that's passionate about making a difference.

Ready to Apply?

Don't worry if you don't meet every single requirement. We value a great attitude and a willingness to learn above all. If you're passionate about packaging innovation, sustainability, and leadership, we encourage you to submit your application today.

Join our team and help us shape the future of packaging!

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