Packaging sourcing

Packaging Sourcing & Development Manager – Cosmetics, Food & Lifestyle Brand (Mumbai)Location: Mumbai (On-site)About the RoleWe’re seeking an experienced Packaging Sourcing & Development Manager to lead packaging procurement, vendor management, and innovation for our fast-growing cosmetics, food & lifestyle brand.This role combines creativity, technical expertise, and supply chain management - ensuring every product we package reflects premium quality, sustainability, and the essence of modern luxury.Key Responsibilities1. Packaging Vendor Identification & Development- Research, identify, and onboard reliable packaging vendors and manufacturers across India and international markets (China, Thailand, Indonesia, and Italy preferred).- Build a robust vendor ecosystem for bottles, jars, caps, pumps, tubes, cartons, labels, and outer boxes catering to skincare, cosmetics, and lifestyle SKUs.- Evaluate new suppliers through technical audits, certifications, sample trials, and quality benchmarking.- Develop long-term partnerships with key packaging vendors to ensure supply stability, innovation, and scalability as the brand grows.2. Procurement, Costing & Negotiation- Lead quotation, negotiation, and contract finalization for packaging materials ensuring best quality-to-cost ratio.- Track MOQs, lead times, logistics, and payment terms to optimize cash flow and inventory levels.- Collaborate with the finance and supply chain teams to forecast material demand and manage procurement budgets effectively.- Conduct comparative cost analyses across multiple suppliers to identify savings opportunities without compromising luxury standards.3. Packaging Design Coordination & Aesthetic Development- Partner closely with the branding, product development, and design teams to bring creative packaging ideas to life.- Translate design briefs into technical packaging specifications, balancing aesthetics, durability, and production feasibility.- Work on premium finishing techniques like embossing, UV coating, foil stamping, metallic finishes, and frosted glass to create a high-end brand experience.- Ensure all packaging aligns with brand identity, shelf appeal, and consumer unboxing experience.4. Technical & Quality Assurance- Work with vendors to ensure material compatibility between formulations and packaging (PET, HDPE, Glass, PP, Metal, and eco-materials).- Conduct drop tests, seal integrity, and leakage testing to ensure performance and durability standards.- Collaborate with R&D and QA teams to validate regulatory compliance (FDA, GMP, ISO) for all packaging components.- Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for packaging quality, sampling, and approvals.5. Sustainability & Innovation- Drive initiatives for eco-friendly, recyclable, biodegradable, and refillable packaging.- Research and introduce next-generation sustainable materials such as sugarcane bioplastics, bamboo, and recycled glass.- Explore innovative form factors and textures that enhance consumer experience - minimal waste tubes, airless pumps, and luxury refill systems.- Work towards positioning the brand as a leader in clean, conscious, and responsible packaging within the premium beauty segment.6. Supply Chain Collaboration & Execution- Coordinate with supply chain and operations teams to align procurement schedules with production timelines.- Manage end-to-end packaging lifecycle - from sampling, approval, mass production to delivery and warehouse coordination.- Monitor vendor KPIs (quality scores, delivery adherence, and rejection rates) and maintain detailed performance records.- Troubleshoot packaging issues proactively to ensure zero production delays and smooth brand launches.7. Trend Research & Continuous Improvement- Stay updated with global beauty packaging trends, new material innovations, and consumer preferences.- Benchmark against top-tier beauty brands to ensure brand’s packaging stands at par with global luxury aesthetics.- Participate in industry expos, trade fairs, and supplier meets to discover new materials, technologies, and design inspirations.- Continuously optimize packaging processes for cost efficiency, quality enhancement, and sustainability impact.Requirements- 4+ years of experience in packaging sourcing, vendor management, or supply chain (preferably in cosmetics, personal care, or FMCG).- Strong vendor network across India, China, and Southeast Asia is a plus.- Understanding of printing, labeling, molding, and finishing techniques (foil stamping, UV coating, embossing).- Excellent negotiation, costing, and analytical skills.- Strong collaboration mindset to work with design, marketing, and production teams.