Packaging Technologist

The Role

14 month fixed-term contract (maternity cover)

You will manage new product development packaging through the stage-gate (Kaihatsu) process across retail, wholesale and e‑commerce channels. Working closely with Kaihatsu project teams, you will ensure all packaging tasks are delivered on time, within budget, and ready for launch.

The role also provides data support for EPR, plastic tax, LCA and wider reporting, alongside preparation for upcoming EU PPWR requirements and the product passport for 2030. You will support the wider team with SAP queries, ensuring all data created is accurate, consistent and fit for reporting.

• Data support for EPR/PPWR/plastic tax reporting/data reporting/LCA. With the introduction of EPR and PPWR as other data reporting responsibilities, this position will play a key role in the team to help manage our reporting in an efficient and consistent manner, working alongside the ESG lead team.
• Manage and develop new products/projects following the MB Kaihatsu process and technical packaging development steps (including project budget/artworks/codes and BOM creation/logistical date/creating specs and standards/establishing AQLs with suppliers). Ensuring all parties, suppliers and internal teams are clear on what is required and ensure that the best product for the business is delivered on time and to budget.
• Keep abreast of ESG options for all materials being proposed in a project and look for ways to reduce, reuse, recycle where possible. Where possible look out and lead specific ESG & innovation ideas for new components, and product ideas. Awareness of EPR (UK and European packaging waste regulations).
• Support & represent the department for Packaging / R&D & MB for any initiatives. Including attending events & supporting the management team. Also to review processes and look at opportunities to improve processes and RACI with other areas, so work smarter not just harder.

• Bachelor's degree or relevant qualification, ideally in a technical or material science discipline
• Minimum 3 years experience in a similar product development or technology role, including supplier interaction
• Solid technical understanding of the end‑to‑end new product development process, from concept to store
• Proven experience with SAP and data reporting; advanced Excel skills are essential
• Confident user of MS Office and MS Teams
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams
• Attention to detail with a curious, tenacious and proactive mindset
• Self‑starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently

Molton Brown is part of Kao founded in Japan in 1887, Kao is passionate about making a difference in people's lives with our high‑quality products and services to create a Kirei Life for all - a beautiful life that respects the needs of our consumers and customers as well as the planet. Our corporate philosophy, the Kao Way, guides us in everything we do - acting with integrity, courageously driving innovation and treating each other with trust and respect.

How we work:
Having been selected among the World's Most Ethical Companies for 19 consecutive years, we are a company with a purpose and strong corporate values. We never compromise on quality and craft our products with care for the consumer and the environment. At Kao, each employee can actively shape their job and their career. We work collaboratively to achieve our common goals, always aiming to deliver the best for our customers.

Hiring Process:
Kao embraces the diversity and the individual personalities of its people because we believe it is diversity that makes us strong. This is why we welcome applications from all areas of the global community.