Director Paper & Pulp Center for Innovation

Job Responsibilities

Define and execute Sabert’s pulp and paper innovation strategy aligned with growth and sustainability goals
Lead development of new molded fiber and paperboard solutions, including high-heat, sealable, and barrier-enhanced technologies
Drive end-to-end product development from concept through pilot and full-scale commercialization using stage-gate processes
Advance barrier coatings, laminations, and material technologies to improve performance and differentiation
Oversee R&D labs, pilot trials, and testing standards (TAPPI, ASTM, food-contact compliance)
Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Commercial, Marketing, and Procurement to bring innovations to market
Lead sustainability initiatives including fiber sourcing (FSC/PEFC), recyclability, composability, and lifecycle assessments
Build and develop a high-performing technical team while managing budgets, capital projects, and innovation pipelines

Qualifications

• BS or equivalent degree in Paper Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 10-15+ years in pulp/paper or molded fiber packaging R&D with proven commercialization record
• Expertise in forming processes, barrier coatings/laminations, and converting
• Strong command of material testing (TAPPI/ASTM), food-contact compliance, and reliability engineering
• Demonstrated leadership in stage-gate, portfolio management, and cross-functional program delivery
• Experience with sustainability frameworks (FSC/PEFC, recyclability/composability claims, LCA)
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and influencing abilities across all organizational levels
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Passion for sustainability and innovation in packaging solution

Summary

Pay, Benefits And More. Sabert is eager to attract the best, so we offer competitive compensation and a generous benefits package, including full health insurance (medical, dental and vision), 401(k), life insurance, disability and more.