Manager, Packaging Design - Trends

As the Manager of Packaging Design, you will lead packaging designers across our portfolio of trend-driven brands to create cost-effective, eye-catching, functional, and safe packaging. You will drive concept-to-prototype execution, art direct visual elements, mentor junior talent, and align packaging strategy with consumer trends. What Will You Do: Manage and guide the design and development process (including brainstorming, design, prototype development, and production) while ensuring deliverables are met within scheduled deadlinesDevelop innovative packaging design systems that are functional while also maintaining the aesthetics and brand integrity to meet packaging objectivesEvaluates packaging designs for fit, structure, function, suitable materials, quality, cost effectiveness, manufacturability, transportation, industry best practices, and high standards of the brandEvaluate consumer and market trends for packaging materialsResponsible for managing time-line requirements and maintaining schedule to support production, and communicating with leaders and global counterparts on updates, progress, objectives, and any issuesWork closely with senior mangers to quickly and efficiently resolve any issuesWork collaboratively to develop and implement strategies across product linesLead and attend cross functional team meetingsManage outsourced projects as requiredCollaborate with cross functional departments to produce functional, yet eye catching packagesResponsible for ensuring packaging designs accurately represent the company’s brandComplete final mock-up designs using computer modeling softwarePrepare submissions for licensor approvalFollow workflow and sign-off protocols to ensure final deliverables are error-freePrepare final files for production and work with the production team on specifics such as Pantone matching, proofing, etc.Approve print proofs and samples (FEP’s) before going into productionHave ownership over various packaging projects and work with outside vendors to help execute as neededBring cohesion between available packaging materials and the aesthetics and functionality of the final productParticipate in all stages of the employee life cycle for packaging design teamPerform other duties as assigned Supervisor Responsibilities Manages People: Yes What We Are Looking For: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, art, industrial design or related field is a plus. 3-5 years of packaging design experience in consumer products (CPG), with a focus on toys, kids' products, and trend-driven brands.2+ year of leadership experience or management experience. Experience working with style guides, die-lines, structural concepts, and physical mock-ups.Experience working with licensed brands.Background in trade show design and visual merchandising is a plus.Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign). Working knowledge of computer modeling software for mock-up designs. Deep understanding of printing processes and mechanical preparation (4-color, spot/Pantone colors, paper stock, file formats, bleeds, resolution, and proofing/FEP approvals). Knowledge of packaging materials and various manufacturing processes. Proficient in Microsoft Office & G-Suite. Excellent graphic design skills with a strong sense of aesthetics, innovation, and ability to art direct visual assets. Proven leadership abilities: coaching, mentoring, inspiring, and developing creative talent. Exceptional project management and organizational skills with strong attention to detail. Proactive problem solver and critical thinker able to make strategic, well-informed decisions under tight deadlines. Strong interpersonal, visual, verbal, and written communication skills across all organizational levels and external vendors. Stays actively informed on current marketplace trends, innovations, and the competitive toy landscape. Highly self-mot This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee, but provide the primary duties and responsibilities of the role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. What We Offer The salary range for this position is $86,400.00 $105,420.00 / Yr. The base salary may vary based on experience, role tenure, performance, industry, and location. Eligibility for the annual performance incentive may apply. Jazwares is a multi-state employer, so the salary range may not apply to other states. Our benefits package includes basic medical insurance that is 100% company-paid for employees and their children, employee basic life and AD&D insurance, a 401(K) retirement program with Jazwares matching up to 4% of pretax or post-tax deferrals, short and long-term disability, and tuition reimbursement. Our work environment provides a flexible work schedule that includes Monday through Thursday on-site, with an optional WFH on Fridays, up to 20 workdays fully remote each year, and Time Off for vacation and sick leave. Through Jazwares Cares, you will have the opportunity to volunteer for up to 16 hours a year on community service projects. Reasonable Accommodations To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Working at Jazwares At Jazwares, we believe an innovative idea can come from anywhere and anyone. Through our three pillars, we foster innovation and encourage creativity in every area of our business. Passion: Our conviction and enthusiasm show in our products, relationships, and commitment to our community.Collaboration: We share one vision worldwide, constantly striving to improve and innovate together.Humility: We recognize the value in others and treat everyone with respect. Our strength lies in our people and talent. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be part of the fastest-growing toy company in the industry. Connect with us today, and let's shape the future of play together! JAZWARES is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, ancestry, disability, age, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Jazwares is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. Who We Are Jazwares, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a leading global toy manufacturer with a robust portfolio of owned and licensed brands. Founded in 1997, Jazwares celebrates imaginative play with a progressive focus on identifying new and relevant trends to transform into high-quality products for consumers of all ages. Jazwares engages consumers through innovative play experiences with popular brands such as Squishmallows™, Pokémon™, Hello Kitty™, Star Wars™, Five Nights at Freddy’s™, Disney™, BumBumz™, and BLDR™. In addition to toys, offerings include costumes, games, and pillows. Headquartered in Plantation, Florida, Jazwares has offices worldwide and sells its products in over 100 countries. For more information, visit www.jazwares.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook. Recruitment Safety Please be wary of unsolicited communications from individuals or websites you are not familiar with, or any communications requesting sensitive personal data or information. All official Jazwares employment information will come from our company email ending in @jazwares.com. Jazwares will never request any monetary payments at any point during its hiring process. If you have any questions about any unsolicited communications, you can reach out to jazlegal@jazwares.com. We look forward to you experiencing a safe and enjoyable application process at Jazwares!