Packaging Category Manager/Expert for Labels, Flexibles and Bags (d/f/m)

About this Position

The Packaging Category Expert/Manager is responsible for the strategic and technical leadership of a defined packaging category (Labels, Flexibles and Bags) within the global packaging portfolio. The SME supports the Packaging Center of Excellence by driving category harmonization, innovation, and performance optimization across markets. Person holding this role ensures packaging solutions within their category align with business needs, sustainability goals, and regulatory requirements, while partnering closely with cross‑functional teams.

What You’ll Do

• Act as the global technical authority for a specific packaging category (Labels, Flexibles and Bags) maintaining deep expertise in materials, technologies, and the supplier landscape
• Lead standardization and rationalization of packaging specifications to reduce complexity, cost, and inefficiencies
• Develop new packaging solutions in collaboration with the Packaging Project Implementation team, ensuring “first‑time‑right” packaging solution
• Monitor emerging materials and technologies, translating trends into actionable initiatives aligned with strategy and sustainability.
• Provide technical leadership in innovation, renovation, and sustainability projects, ensuring feasibility and performance
• Develop strategic suppliers landscape for the category and drive new developments and innovations
• Ensure packaging solutions support Henkel’s sustainability goals and comply with global regulations (e.g., PPWR, recyclability)
• Maintain and share up‑to‑date category guidelines, specs, and best practices while collaborating cross‑functionally to meet business needs.

What makes you a good fit

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in packaging development or category management, with strong expertise in one or more specific packaging categories
• Deep technical expertise in packaging innovation, material optimization, and regulatory compliance (e.g., PPWR, recyclability, food contact).
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional projects in global, matrixed environments with strong collaboration and stakeholder influence.
• Strategic yet detail‑oriented mindset with strong analytical, communication, and project coordination skills
• Fluent in English; additional languages are a plus

Some perks of joining Henkel

• Flexible work scheme with flexible hours, hybrid work model, and work from anywhere policy for up to 30 days per year
• Diverse national and international growth opportunities
• Global wellbeing standards with health and preventive care programs
• Gender‑neutral parental leave for a minimum of 8 weeks
• Employee Share Plan with voluntary investment and Henkel matching shares
• Company Pension Plan 100% financed by Henkel
• MEGA Preventive Health Insurance
• CareFlex Supplementary Care Insurance
• Mobility offer: My Henkel Bike and Jobticket

At Henkel, we come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe the uniqueness of all our employees is the power in us. Become part of the team and bring your uniqueness to us! We welcome all applications across different genders, origins, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, generations and disabilities. If there are any specific accommodations or adjustments you require for the interview process or your on‑site appointment, please inform us, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your requests.