Packaging Innovation Manager

Packaging Manager, Innovation R&D

Location: Stamford, CT (Hybrid 3 days / week)

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of over 200 brands in over 180 countries globally, including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Our performance ambition is to be one of the best performing, most trusted and respected consumer products companies in the world. We are proud of the brands we make and the enjoyment they give to millions. We are passionate about alcohol playing a positive role in society as part of a balanced lifestyle. It is central to our purpose to celebrate life, every day, everywhere!

About the Function:

We're visionaries, researching and developing the liquids, packaging and products\ that shape our industry and much-loved brands. Our founders were incredible entrepreneurs whose thoughtful minds helped shape the alcohol industry. Our Research and Development team continue this legacy, reimagining our brands for the world today.

At our state-of-the-art research facilities around the globe, we have a collaboration of innovative minds working together to develop the products and solutions of tomorrow. We welcome your specialist skills and inspiring ideas and will support you to grow and develop in our inclusive culture.

About the Role:

We are looking for a creative and curious Packaging Innovation Manager to join our R&D team in Stamford, CT. This full-time, hybrid position (3 days onsite weekly) is ideal for a junior-to-mid-level professional with a passion for hands-on prototyping and design-forward packaging development. You'll serve as a critical link between marketing vision, creative concepts, and technical execution-turning early-stage ideas into real, tangible solutions. Working with an experienced team of packaging experts, you'll own our prototyping capabilities and collaborate cross-

functionally with brand teams, procurement, external suppliers, and creative agencies to shape the future of our packaging pipeline.

If you're motivated by solving complex creative challenges and excited to develop tomorrow's packaging solutions, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Support new packaging development for future-facing innovation programs, particularly in

convenience (RTD/RTS/new formats)

• Lead and optimize prototyping workflow using in-house 3D equipment:

o FDM and mSLA printers

o 3D scanner

o Flatbed label printer

• Create and refine digital 3D models using tools like Fusion 360, SolidWorks, and Blender

• Print, assemble, and deliver functional packaging mockups and concept models

• Collaborate with procurement, operations, and suppliers throughout development

• Manage external contractors for supplemental 3D and design support

• Identify and explore new packaging technologies for long-term application

• Expand supplier network via trade shows, networking, and vendor outreach

• Serve as a liaison between creative marketers and technical engineering teams

• Stay current with industry trends by attending conferences and supplier showcases

• Document standard processes and continuously improve prototyping systems

• Design solutions that are manufacturable, and see products through to shelf

Experience & Background

• BS in Packaging, material science, engineering or similar technical field; MS a plus

• 5 years+ of experience in packaging, product development, or industrial design

• Experience in print development is preferred

• Prior roles may include experience at - design agencies, comp houses, suppliers, tool

shops, or CPG companies

• Strong portfolio of prototyping work and creative packaging solutions (preferred)

Technical Skills

• Proficient in:

o Fusion 360

o SolidWorks

o Blender

o Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop

• Familiarity with 3D printing, scanning, and physical prototyping techniques

Skills Required

• Strong communication skills and experience with stakeholder management

• Solution oriented attitude, thrives with complex challenges in a fast-paced environment

• Collaboration across multiple functions (internal and external) including; brand, marketing,

procurement, suppliers

• Design thinking mindset with the ability to navigate challenges, gather options and

influence cross functional partners through to execution on-shelf

• Design forward thinker who's confident in a creative and technical hybrid space

• Functional understanding of manufacturing processes

• Travel: willingness to travel ~20%

Flexible Working Statement:

Flexibility is key to our success. From part-time and compressed hours to different locations, our people work flexibly in ways to suit them. Talk to us about what flexibility means to you so that you're supported from day one.