Job Description

Role Overview:

This role is responsible for managing the end-to-end New Product Development (NPD) process within the chemical sector, from concept to launch. It includes ownership of packaging development, sustainability initiatives (e.g., FSC certification), and full legal and regulatory compliance. The role ensures that all packaging components are safe, legally compliant, functional, and sustainable aligned with the Hays Chemical NPD process and market regulations.

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Key Responsibilities:

1. New Product Development (NPD):

Lead cross-functional NPD projects, from concept through commercialisation. Coordinate timelines, product specifications, resource planning, and stakeholder alignment across R&D, operations, regulatory, marketing, and supply chain. Ensure projects meet performance, cost, quality, and launch readiness targets.
2. Packaging Development & Management:

Design and implement packaging solutions that are suitable for chemical products, including compatibility, safety, shelf life, and usability. Source and qualify packaging materials and formats, including FSC-certified and recyclable options. Lead packaging testing, validation, and approval processes.
3. Legal & Regulatory Compliance (Packaging):

Ensure all packaging meets local and international legal requirements (e.g., REACH, CLP, GHS, Packaging Waste Regulations, Extended Producer Responsibility). Maintain up-to-date knowledge of packaging laws, including labelling regulations, material restrictions, and transport safety for chemical products. Work closely with legal, regulatory affairs, and QA teams to mitigate compliance risks and prepare documentation.
4. Sustainability & FSC Compliance:

Champion the use of FSC-certified materials and sustainable packaging innovations. Collaborate with suppliers to ensure traceability and documentation of FSC compliance. Support sustainability reporting and environmental claims related to packaging.
5. Supplier & Stakeholder Coordination:

Build and manage relationships with external packaging vendors and raw material suppliers. Ensure vendor compliance with technical specifications, legal standards, and FSC requirements. Negotiate packaging contracts and lead quality assurance efforts for all packaging components. Experience using supplier portals to streamline vendor management, compliance tracking, and packaging data exchange.
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Preferred Experience:

Proven experience in NPD and packaging development within the chemical or FMCG sectors. Strong working knowledge of regulatory compliance for packaging and labelling in international markets. Familiarity with FSC certification, eco-design principles, and circular packaging strategies. Effective project manager with cross-functional leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 28,502.19-40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension On-site parking
Work Location: In person