Packaging Project Manager

POSITION TITLE: Packaging Project ManagerPOSITION STATUS: Full-Time, Permanent, ExemptLOCATION: Liberty, SCDEPARTMENT: Operations/R&DREPORT TO: Simone Bauwens, Director of R&D And BusinessEFFECTIVE DATE: May 2026Position ProfileCérélia’s Frozen Breakfast Business Unit – US Waffle – is driving an ambitious growth strategy supported by its manufacturing facilities in Liberty, South Carolina and Hazelwood, Missouri. To support continued expansion and product innovation at our Liberty facility, we are seeking a skilled and driven Packaging Project Manager to join our team.We are looking for a hands-on, technically strong, and highly collaborative professional who will serve as our internal expert on packaging materials and lead packaging-related R&D and improvement initiatives. This role is ideal for someone who combines deep knowledge of packaging materials and food applications with strong project management capabilities and a practical, plant-focused mindset.This is not a purely strategic role. The Packaging Project Manager will be highly engaged on the production floor, working closely with packaging equipment specialists, operations teams, and suppliers to test, validate, and implement new packaging solutions. The role requires the ability to translate testing data into clear, actionable recommendations that drive results.The successful candidate will lead packaging innovation projects, support material optimization efforts, and collaborate cross-functionally to improve packaging performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability. We are looking for someone who brings both technical expertise and strong execution skills—someone who can turn ideas into tangible outcomes.This position plays a key role in supporting operational excellence, product quality, and continuous improvement across the facility.This strategic position will report directly to the Director of R&D and Business Development of the Frozen Breakfast Business Unit.Primary Responsibilities2) Project Management and R&D3) Testing, Validation, and Implementation4) Continuous Improvement and Optimization5) Cross-Functional Collaboration and Reporting Packaging Expertise and Material StrategyServe as the internal subject matter expert on packaging materialsDefine and promote best practices for packaging material selection based on product protection, shelf life, manufacturability, cost, and sustainabilityEvaluate new packaging technologies and recommend improvements aligned with business goalsPartner with procurement to identify, evaluate, and qualify new materials and suppliersLead packaging-related R&D and improvement projects from concept through commercializationDevelop and manage project timelines, milestones, and deliverablesCoordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful execution of projectsManage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environmentWork closely with packaging equipment specialists and plant teams to execute line trials and testing activitiesDesign and oversee packaging trials including performance, shelf-life, and transportation testingAnalyze test results and translate findings into clear, actionable next stepsEnsure successful implementation of packaging changes into productionIdentify opportunities to improve packaging performance, reduce cost, and enhance sustainabilityDrive initiatives to optimize material usage, reduce waste, and improve efficiencySupport troubleshooting of packaging-related issues on the production floorPartner with operations, engineering, quality, procurement, and suppliers to support packaging initiativesCommunicate project updates, risks, and results to leadershipMaintain accurate documentation for formulas, trials, specifications, test protocols, observations, and project progresscompliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements related to packagingCore CompetenciesDrive High Performance: Establishes clear accountability for outcomes. Demonstrates focus and discipline in planning and execution. Acts with speed, agility and demonstrates a sense of urgency to keep momentumCollaborate: Builds and maintains strong relationships and makes commitments to others and follows through. Actively listens and communicates openly. Engages constructively in debates. Supports and executes decisions once madeCan-do attitude: Demonstrates a positive, solution-focused approach, actively seeks out opportunities to improve processes, and readily tackles challenges with resilience and enthusiasm. Thrives in dynamic environments and is motivated by delivering impactful resultsInnovate: Challenges the status quo by pro-actively identifying opportunities for improvement. encourages sharing best practices, creativity, and experimentation; learns from setbacks and adapts quicklyAccuracy and Attention to Detail: Exhibits precision and thoroughness, consistently producing reliable work. Demonstrates diligence in reviewing data, identifying discrepancies promptly, and ensuring adherence to high standards of quality and complianceQualificationsEducation Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Food Science, Materials Science, Engineering, or related field preferredEquivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be consideredExperience3–7+ years of experience in packaging, preferably within food manufacturing or consumer goods3+ years progressive project management experience requiredProven experience managing projects and leading cross-functional initiatives. Experience working in a manufacturing environment and supporting plant operationsKnowledge and CertificationsBasic understanding of food labeling regulatory requirementsStrong knowledge of packaging materials, food packaging requirements, and testing methodsFamiliarity with packaging equipment, line trials, and commercialization processesKnowledge of sustainability trends and recyclable/alternative materials is a plusPMP or other project management certification is preferredSkills And CompetenciesAnalytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive decisionsEffective communication and ability to influence without direct authorityHigh degree of proficiency in MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applicationsStrong documentation and follow-throughStrong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skillsPhysical/Working Conditions & Decision-Making AuthorityPhysical/Working ConditionsRegular presence on the manufacturing floorAbility to walk the facility, climb stairs, and stand for extended periodsMay occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Must be able to wear required PPE and work in production environments with noise, temperature variation, and moving equipment. May work flexible hours to support trials, testing, and project implementationDecision-Making/AuthorityRecommends packaging materials, specifications, and process improvementsLeads packaging-related project decisions within scopeHas authority to initiate and coordinate trials and testing activitiesEscalates risks, delays, and major decisions to leadership as neededSuccess ProfileA successful Packaging Project Manager:Drives packaging projects from concept to successful implementationImproves packaging performance, cost efficiency, and sustainabilityBuilds strong partnerships with operations, engineering, and suppliersTranslates technical data into practical, plant-ready solutionsBrings a balance of technical expertise and hands-on execution to the manufacturing floorPowered by JazzHRULWC4a10Uo