Manager, Packaging Development

MERIT is hiring a Manager, Packaging Development to enhance Merit’s packaging innovation - encompassing all beauty categories within the portfolio, including: cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance.  

The ideal candidate will possess a refined aesthetic sensibility, a strong understanding of packaging design principles, and the ability to translate the brand's identity into tangible packaging experiences that resonate with the brand's values and core audience. This is a key role where you will help to shape MERIT’s packaging strategy, ensuring excellence in design, functionality, and sustainability.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the conceptualization, development, and execution of innovative packaging solutions for both primary and secondary components that align with MERIT’s brand identity and values
• Collaborate with internal teams to translate brand vision into tangible packaging designs that resonate with the brand’s target audience
• Manage outside packaging vendors with respect to ideation, sampling, tooling budget, final cost of goods, manufacturing, and testing (including compatibility, troubleshooting production issues, and final production of all components)
• Attend line trials and final production of products to ensure guidelines are met, quality is approved, and all products launch in line with MERIT’s focus on excellence
• Play a key role in change-management, improving components and products previously launched based on customer feedback, reducing costs on high COG items, and improving sustainability when applicable
• Have a deep understanding of component functionality, finding the balance between component aesthetics, functionality, durability, and manufacturability
• Participate in the entire packaging design process, from ideation to production, ensuring adherence to aesthetics, quality standards, budget constraints, and timelines
• Champion sustainability initiatives by exploring eco-friendly materials and production methods for packaging while maintaining aesthetic integrity
• Stay informed of industry trends, consumer insights, and technological advancements to drive continuous improvement and innovation in packaging design

Qualifications:

• 4+ years of experience in packaging design or related fields, preferably within the beauty or luxury retail sector - experience at a high growth cosmetic company preferred
• Bachelor's degree in packaging engineering, mechanical engineering or related field
• Strong aesthetic sensibility with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for creating visually stunning packaging
• Proven track record of leading successful packaging projects from concept to execution, with a portfolio showcasing innovative designs and strategic thinking
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence and inspire cross-functional teams
• Prior experience in sustainability-focused initiatives and knowledge of sustainable packaging practices 
• Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision
• High attention to detail
• An ability to prioritize and stay organized while running multiple projects simultaneously 

MERIT is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package in addition to compensation. The annual salary for this role is $95,000 -105,000, in addition to bonus potential, stock options, a 401(k) match, health benefits, paid time off and more.