Manager, Packaging Development

MERIT is a minimalist beauty brand that makes impossible to mess up products for a multi-generational community. Designed by makeup consumers — not artists — MERIT was created as the antidote to the overwhelming world of beauty. We simplify what it takes to get ready by creating only well-edited essentials that help you do more with less. With minimalism at its core, MERIT remains intentional in the products it creates, spending years perfecting every detail to ensure it’s not just another product, but one that you can live with for years to come.

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.

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