Print Manager (M/F/D)

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Print Manager to lead and modernise the print management function within a major European FMCG organisation. Reporting into Packaging Development and working closely with Marketing and R&D/Innovation, this role oversees end-to-end print operations, from specification through to quality delivery, while steering the shift towards a more digitalised, automated future.

You will manage a team of 7-8 print management specialists and work with external repro agencies and printers to ensure brand consistency, technical accuracy, and best-in-class packaging quality.

Key Responsibilities

Packaging & Print Specifications

• Develop specifications for all packaging formats across multiple categories.
• Define structural and technical requirements for packaging components.
• Create and oversee 2D design development and ensure accurate transformation into print-ready data.

Print Management & Production

• Oversee the full repro process, ensuring artwork is accurately converted into reproducible print data.
• Manage colour separation, ink combinations, and printing intensity to achieve final design accuracy.
• Set and implement print standards across suppliers and printing partners.
• Evaluate print quality, conduct technical assessments, and troubleshoot issues during print runs.

Project & Stakeholder Management

• Lead multiple cross-functional projects involving Marketing, Packaging Development, and R&D.
• Serve as the primary contact for printers, repro agencies, and production teams.
• Support marketing stakeholders to translate creative design intent into technically feasible print solutions.

Team Leadership

• Manage a team of 7-8 print and technical specialists.
• Ensure optimal workload distribution in a growing environment without team expansion.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and strategic direction to elevate team capability.

Innovation & Digital Transformation

• Drive the digitalisation of print workflows and processes.
• Implement automation solutions and integrate system-based data handling to reduce manual processes.
• Modernise print standards, workflows, and cross-functional ways of working.
• Contribute to future-focused strategies within the organisation\'s packaging and print development functions.

Candidate Profile

• Strong expertise in print technologies, repro processes, colour management, and packaging production.
• Background working with repro or print agencies (knowledge of leading providers such as Esko preferred).
• Proven capability in managing complex print projects with a high degree of technical depth.
• Experience collaborating with marketing teams and translating creative concepts into production-ready solutions.
• Solid leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop specialist teams.
• Future-focused mindset with interest in automation, digital workflows, and continuous improvement.
• Candidates based in the UK or Germany are ideal.
• Fluent in English; German language skills are advantageous.