Packaging Technologist & Sustainability Manager

Packaging Technologist & Sustainability Manager

Department: Product Development

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Manchester

Reporting To: NPD Manager

Description At REFY, we're redefining beauty packaging - where innovation, sustainability, and quality meet simplicity.

You'll report to the NPD Manager, collaborate across teams and with global partners to develop innovative high-performing components that reflect our brand vision, meet evolving ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) initiatives while exceeding our quality standards and community expectations.

This role is key to delivering exceptional, future-ready packaging.
Key Responsibilities

• Lead bespoke packaging development from concept to launch, aligning with brand vision, community needs and sustainability goals.
• Manage and mentor the PD Design & Artwork Executive, driving collaboration across design, development, and approvals.
• Review and approve component technical drawings and tooling, overseeing sampling stages (T1-T3) to ensure readiness for production.
• Assess packaging concepts and offer technical recommendations to ensure structural integrity, manufacturability, and compatibility with filling and decoration processes.
• Ensure packaging is optimised for efficiency, cost, scalability, quality, and environmental standards.
• Lead and manage packaging validation and sign off processes, including compatibility, decoration, and homologation testing (e.g. leakage, torque, and usability) and leading line trials while owning risk management and mitigation in line with critical path.
• Maintain and oversee pre-production packaging specs, testing protocols, and quality procedure documents. Collaborate with Production and Quality Executive to ensure these standards are upheld during production and post-launch, constantly monitoring performance.
• Ensure compliance across markets (UK, EU, US, ME) by working with Formulation, Compliance, and Legal teams on materials (Plastic Packaging Tax reporting), labelling, Environmental, Social Governance (ESG), leading and managing UK Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) reporting and IP protection.
• Gather and maintain all necessary packaging compliance documentation (e.g., declarations of conformity, migration test reports, REACH/RoHS where applicable).
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological innovations, and evolving consumer expectations to inform and implement forward-thinking, sustainable packaging strategies.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Industrial Design, or similar.
• Proven experience developing primary and secondary packaging in the beauty or skincare industry.
• Out of the box innovator
• Strong knowledge of materials, sustainability, and compliance with cosmetic regulations (EU/UK/US).
• Hands-on experience with tooling, manufacturing processes, and production line trials.
• Skilled in managing global suppliers, solving technical challenges, and working cross-functionally.
• Familiar with market trends, consumer insights, and competitor landscape.
• Clear and effective communicator with strong stakeholder management skills.

Benefits

• 25+ Days Holiday: Start with 25, earn one for every year's service (up to 5)
• Extra Holidays: Option to buy up to 5 additional days.
• Community First Day: A day to support a cause you love.
• Bonus Scheme: Rewards for your hard work and success.
• Family Leave: Enhanced support for new parents.
• EV Scheme: Drive electric with salary sacrifice options.
• Financial Coaching: Guidance to boost your money mindset.
• Flexible Religious Holidays: Flexibility to honour days that matter to you.
• Flexible Working: Flexi start and finish times with the option to work one day per week from home.
• REFY Product Perks: Annual allowance + exclusive discounts.
• Regular Social Events: Team-Building days and seasonal parties.
• Career Growth: Tailored training and development opportunities.
• Vitality Health Insurance: Health coverage with added benefits.