Assistant Manager – Packaging Procurement (NPD)

Department: Procurement / New Product Development (NPD)Location: Pune (Narhe)Experience: 3–6 Years (FMCG / Beauty & Personal Care / Cosmetics preferred)About the Role: We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Packaging Procurement Executive / Assistant Manager to support our New Product Development (NPD) function. The ideal candidate will be responsible for sourcing innovative packaging materials, developing vendor partnerships, ensuring timely procurement for new product launches, and optimizing cost, quality, and delivery. The role requires close collaboration with NPD, R&D, Packaging Development, Design, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to ensure successful commercialization of new products.Key Responsibilities:Packaging Procurement  Source primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging materials for new product launches.  Identify and develop new suppliers for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.  Obtain quotations, negotiate pricing, payment terms, MOQs, and lead times.  Ensure timely procurement of packaging materials to meet project timelines.Vendor Development & Management  Identify, evaluate, onboard, and manage packaging vendors.  Conduct supplier evaluations and periodic performance reviews.  Build strong relationships with packaging suppliers to ensure quality, innovation, and continuity of supply.  Coordinate vendor audits in collaboration with the QA team.New Product Development (NPD) Support  Work closely with the NPD, R&D, Brand, and Packaging Design teams during product development.  Source new packaging formats, finishes, materials, closures, labels, and accessories.  Ensure packaging materials meet product specifications and regulatory requirements.  Support packaging trials, pilot batches, and commercial launches.Cost Optimization  Drive cost-saving initiatives through alternate sourcing and value engineering.  Benchmark packaging costs and recommend commercially viable alternatives.  Analyze market trends and raw material price movements. Inventory & Supply Coordination  Coordinate with Planning and Supply Chain teams for packaging material availability.  Monitor supplier delivery schedules and resolve supply-related issues.  Ensure minimal delays for product launches. Documentation & Compliance  Maintain purchase records, contracts, vendor documentation, and procurement reports.  Ensure compliance with procurement policies and quality standards.  Support audits related to procurement and supplier management. Cross-functional Collaboration  Coordinate with NPD, R&D, QA, Production, Finance, Supply Chain, Design, and Marketing teams to ensure seamless project execution.  Participate in product development meetings and launch reviews.Skills Required:  Strong knowledge of packaging materials (plastic, glass, paper, laminates, cartons, labels, tubes, pumps, caps, etc.).  Procurement and strategic sourcing expertise.  Vendor development and supplier negotiation skills.  Cost analysis and value engineering. Understanding of packaging development and manufacturing processes.  Strong communication and stakeholder management.  Advanced Excel, ERP systems, and procurement software.  Excellent project management and analytical skills. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Packaging Technology, Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, Materials Management, or a related field.  MBA / PGDM in Supply Chain or Procurement is preferred.Preferred Experience:  3–6 years of experience in Packaging Procurement, Packaging Development, or Strategic Sourcing.  Experience in FMCG, Cosmetics, Beauty & Personal Care or Consumer Goods industries.  Hands-on experience with packaging suppliers, packaging innovations, and new product launches.