Innovation Manager

The Innovation Manager - Connected Packaging will be focused on leading and developing integrated food packaging solutions. The position sits within the food segment of Avery Dennison with a focus on innovation. The position requires knowledge of label dispensing systems and equipment design for food and consumer packaging - from packaging material manufacture to inline product conversion/filling. The ideal candidate will be a self starter, naturally curious, able to think creatively, and be comfortable in an ambiguous environment.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING (SCOPE OF ROLE):

• Enabling the Avery Dennison integrated RFID solution set, by leading the effort of solution design, development, and deployment
• Developing a fully integrated solution in partnership with the R&D team, Platform, Digital Innovation, and the commercial teams.
• Leading the design of equipment and systems to enable easy integration into food packaging processes. Success will involve initiating relationships with external and internal partners to develop cost effective solutions which will function in existing manufacturing lines.
• Developing relationships with equipment providers and relevant solution providers.
• Supporting onsite trials at external structural packaging companies serving CPG and food customers as well as trials at equipment manufacturers. Visiting customer sites to determine the necessary system components to commit the customer to a successful pilot and roll out.
• Driving the integration and install from design to roll out for the hardware and software system. Knowledge and use of standard project management tools is essential along with being accessible to the prospect and all integration and design partners.
• Designing pilot technologies and initial demos to support pre sale activities
• Leading project specific teams as well as building and developing an integrated packaging team within Avery Dennison
• Provide leadership and growth opportunities for the structural packaging integration team.

Requirements

• Excellent interpersonal, written communications, and organizational skills. Should have the ability to interface with cross-functional groups to define and execute overall requirements.
• Knowledge of with structural food/CPG manufacturing processes and equipment, including familiarity with food/CPG packaging or food/CPG manufacturing environments
• Working knowledge of automated labeling techniques and the partner ecosystem available
• Has been involved in the modification of an existing packaging manufacturing equipment or creating equipment as an add on to an existing manufacturing process.
• Detail oriented and project management skills are a must.
• Strong influencing skills and ability to champion projects both cross functionally and vertically within the organization, ability to gain buy-in from senior-level executives.
• Have a solid understanding of finance and ROI analysis.
• Creative thinker and comfortable working in ambiguous environments.
• 7 years of experience in managing external relationships
• 10-15 years of experience in equipment design, ideally for structural food or CPG packaging products
• 5-7 years of experience in people and team management and a passion for it
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Packaging Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field strongly preferred.
• Business Travel required: Up to 40% travel