Technical Laboratory Specialist - Packaging

Job Title : Technical Laboratory Specialist - Packaging

Location : Shanghai, China

Reports to : Technical Laboratories Manager - APAC

About Us

From Arthur Guinness to Johnnie Walker, our business was founded on people of great character and in 250 years, nothing's changed. We're the world's leading premium alcohol company. Our brands are industry icons. And our success is thanks to the strength of our people, in every role. It's why we trust them with our legacy. And it's why we reward them with the career-defining opportunities that they deserve.

Our ambition is to create the best performing, most trusted and respected Consumer Products Company in the world. To achieve these, we need the world's very best people.

We're looking for people with creativity, boldness and a sense of purpose to take Diageo and our timeless, pioneering brands to the next level.

Feel inspired? Then this may be the opportunity for you.

Purpose of the Role:

This role, reporting to the Technical Laboratory Manager, is an integral part of the Science & Technology team within Diageo Global Technical. It offers subject matter expertise in testing and developing packaging materials and formats. The incumbent will oversee the daily operations of the Packaging Commercialisation Laboratory, which includes conducting materials testing and providing insights to enhance manufacturing processes, performing material risk assessments and analyses, and supporting projects that require packaging testing, such as Brand Change, Procurement, Sustainable Packaging, and Luxury Packaging initiatives.

Additionally, this role will spearhead the development of new pack test methods to manage emerging packaging material risks. A proactive approach is essential for interpreting results to formulate action plans that aid internal customers in root cause problem-solving, new product manufacturing, and improvement projects.

• Compliance: Ensure laboratory processes are operated and delivered to uphold the health and safety of consumers, customers, and employees.

• Component Testing: Leverage expert knowledge in packaging test methods and result interpretation to accurately assess component performance. Craft technical reports for non-technical audiences with clear conclusions and actionable recommendations.

• Packaging Material Subject Matter Expertise: Utilize extensive experience with packaging materials used across the beverage alcohol industry. Conduct comprehensive materials risk assessments that predict potential risks and develop effective mitigation strategies, considering component-to-component and component-machine interfaces.

• Technical Development: Stay abreast of new advancements in packaging and materials testing. Proactively apply these developments to address business challenges effectively.

• Project Management: Demonstrate proficiency in managing projects and programs. Navigate ambiguity confidently, transforming it into tangible project milestones.

• Ownership: Exhibit proactive judgment to initiate solutions and drive them through to successful completion.

• Technical Problem Solving: Employ technical expertise to lead the resolution of complex technical issues.

• Business Communication: Translate scientific insights into compelling, influential communication for stakeholders. Take ownership of business benefits, commercial considerations, risks, and opportunities, acting decisively on them.

• Qualifications: Degree in a scientific or engineering discipline, ideally with a focus on packaging. Alternatively, possess at least 5 years of experience in packaging development within FMCG, materials production, or an appropriate laboratory setting.

• Industry Experience: Extensive experience in the production and testing of materials used for food and beverage packaging.
• Language : Proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and English is required

• Food Safety Expertise: Strong working knowledge of food hygiene standards, including HACCP principles.

• Auditing Skills: Possession of a lead ISO9001 audit qualification and relevant auditing experience is advantageous.

• Communication Abilities: Demonstrates clear thinking and effective communication skills, both verbal and written. Capable of influencing internal and external stakeholders through strong analytical and planning capabilities.

• Customer Focused: Deep understanding of customer needs and business requirements, coupled with cultural awareness.

• Professional Network: Maintains an active network in material science both within Diageo and externally to support the team as a Global Centre of Excellence.

• Develop and Uphold Standards: Embrace, champion, and effectively apply established standards in all aspects of the role. Consistently adhere to these standards to ensure high-quality outcomes.

• Performance Management: Recognize the critical role of KPIs in driving performance and embedding sustainability ambitions within the organization.

• Continuous Improvement: Demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to embrace change by continuously seeking opportunities for improvement. Utilize a range of continuous improvement tools and techniques to solve problems and identify new opportunities.

• Win Through Execution: Makes objective decisions and effectively drives them forward, even in the face of disagreement or criticism. Acts urgently with a focus on delivering results, maintaining momentum independently across various situations.

• Shape the Future: Generates innovative ideas that align with strategic plans, leveraging sound analytical decision-making to identify technically and commercially viable opportunities.

• Inspire through Purpose: Upholds integrity and builds trust across diverse situations. Demonstrates strong personal commitment to the vision through actions, motivated to make a positive difference. Responds to change with adaptability and positivity, understanding their impact on others and adjusting actions accordingly. Utilizes well-developed interpersonal skills to forge credible relationships by understanding what matters to others.

• Invest in Talent: Exhibits a positive and proactive attitude towards personal development and growth. Adapt effectively when confronted with new challenges.