Product Development Manager

OJI Fibre Solutions is one of New Zealand's leading manufacturers and suppliers of packaging solutions to a wide range of industries throughout the country.

Our customers include blue chip manufacturers and marketers of packaging products to the food, primary produce, industrial, and grocery sectors.We're on the lookout for a dynamic Product Development Manager to fill this newly created role.

Reporting to the CEO, you will be responsible for leading the product design & development function that supports our Corrugated Box and Paper Bag business units around New Zealand.Responsibilities : Lead a team of nine structural and graphic technicians — delivering accurate artwork and product samples to customers, aiming to be our customers' best supplier.Develop and manage team performance, fostering a collaborative team culture; drive continuous improvement in customer service, team productivity, and quality of output.Translate customer briefs into executable design projects, ensuring alignment with production capabilities, materials, and manufacturing constraints.Partner with key customers and suppliers — project manage new product innovations from concept to commercialization, including patent registration where applicable, supporting Oji Fibre Solutions' market growth strategy.Stay informed on market trends, new materials, sustainability initiatives, emerging product, print and design technologies, and packaging / packing equipment, keeping customer needs at the forefront.Provide proactive and clear communication to internal and external customers regarding production timelines and expectations.Deliver high-quality service and technical support to enhance customer satisfaction and foster long-term relationships.Manage Oji Fibre Solutions' design products, materials, and software suppliers and contracts.Focus on operational excellence by improving productivity and customer service through digitization of the design function; manage and approve all quotes and invoices; oversee customer-facing digital platforms to ensure system performance, data security, and user experience are optimized.Track and report on key financial metrics.Ensure data integrity across all customer and production interfaces, maintaining version control, access management, and audit trails.Lead and develop a safety-first culture, ensuring adherence to safe practices.Key Experience & Attributes : At least 3 years of management experience within packaging technology, manufacturing, or art and design.Proven understanding of health and safety management.Training in Flexographic and / or Lithographic printing processes.Knowledge of packaging materials, machinery, and processes including preprint and post-print.Understanding of engineering principles related to packaging functionality.Experience with intellectual property and patents.Proficiency in MIS, SAP, Microsoft Office, and design platforms; experience with WorkflowMax and other job management tools.Commercial awareness with a focus on customer service excellence.Excellent communication skills, with experience managing stakeholder relationships.A mindset geared towards continuous improvement.Self-driven, highly organized, with strong problem-solving skills.This is an exciting leadership opportunity at Oji Fibre Solutions, a global leader in the packaging sector.

We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical insurance, life and income protection insurance, enhanced superannuation, and on-site parking.To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Only applicants legally entitled to work in New Zealand will be considered.

No agency CVs, please.

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