Co-Packing & Co-Manufacturing Manager

Role SummaryThe Co-Packing & Co-Manufacturing Manager is responsible for the end-to-end management of all co-packing and co-manufacturing projects — both where clients produce at our facilities and where we produce at third-party facilities under our brand or other brands. This role serves as the primary interface between external partners and all internal functions, requiring deep expertise in food manufacturing and processing to ensure projects are delivered on time, on specification, and in full compliance with quality, regulatory, and commercial requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesProject ManagementLead and manage all co-packing and co-manufacturing projects from inception through to delivery and post-project review.Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, capacity schedules, and resource requirements for each engagement.Monitor project KPIs including yield, efficiency, cost, quality, and on-time delivery performance.Identify and mitigate risks, escalate issues promptly, and drive corrective actions to resolution.Manage projects involving clients manufacturing at our factory as well as projects where we manufacture at external facilities.External Stakeholder ManagementAct as the single point of contact for all external co-packing and co-manufacturing partners and clients.Build and maintain strong working relationships with third-party manufacturers, contract packers, and client representatives.Negotiate operational terms, service-level agreements, and production schedules with external parties.Conduct regular business reviews and performance evaluations with partners and clients.Internal Cross-Functional CoordinationServe as the operational liaison between external parties and all internal departments including Finance, Procurement, Regulatory, Quality, Supply Chain, Legal, and Marketing.Coordinate with Finance on project costing, invoicing, and financial reporting for all co-packing/co-manufacturing activities.Work closely with Procurement to manage raw material sourcing, packaging procurement, and supplier qualification for co-manufacturing projects.Partner with Regulatory and Quality teams to ensure all products — whether inbound or outbound — meet applicable food safety standards, certifications, and labeling requirements.Collaborate with Supply Chain on demand planning, inventory management, and logistics coordination.Engage Legal on contract review, confidentiality agreements, IP protection, and compliance obligations.Work with Marketing on packaging briefs, artwork approvals, and brand compliance for all co-manufactured products.Technical & Food Manufacturing OversightProvide technical guidance on food processing, formulation feasibility, equipment capabilities, and production line requirements.Review and approve technical specifications, bill of materials, standard operating procedures, and process parameters for co-packed/co-manufactured products.Support the qualification and onboarding of new co-manufacturing sites, including technical audits and capability assessments.Ensure Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and HACCP standards are adhered to at all production sites involved in co-manufacturing activities.Investigate and resolve technical issues, non-conformances, and customer complaints related to co-packed or co-manufactured products.Commercial & Contractual ResponsibilitiesSupport the development and review of co-packing/co-manufacturing agreements, tolling agreements, and service contracts.Track and manage commercial terms including pricing structures, minimum volumes, and change order processes.Identify opportunities to grow the co-manufacturing business and improve operational efficiency.Qualifications & ExperienceEducationBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is an advantage.ExperienceMinimum 7–10 years of experience in food manufacturing, food processing, or a closely related operations role.Demonstrated experience managing co-packing, co-manufacturing, or tolling operations — either as a manufacturer or a brand.Proven track record of managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects in a food industry environment.Experience working across multiple functions (Quality, Regulatory, Finance, Legal, Supply Chain, Marketing) within a food or FMCG company.Hands-on experience with food production environments including but not limited to dairy, beverages, bakery, confectionery, or processed foods is highly desirable.Technical SkillsDeep knowledge of food manufacturing processes, GMP, HACCP, and food safety management systems (e.g., FSSC 22000, SQF, BRC).Strong understanding of food labeling regulations, ingredient declarations, and regional/international compliance standards.Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and project management tools.Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical documents including specifications, process flow diagrams, and quality plans.Core CompetenciesCompetency• Strong project management & organizational skills• Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills• Food manufacturing technical expertise• Commercial acumen and cost awareness• Effective cross-functional communication• Problem-solving and analytical thinking• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously• High attention to detail and quality mindset• Proficiency in English; additional languages are an asset• Leadership and influencing without direct authority• Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills• Commercial acumen and cost awareness• Problem-solving and analytical thinking• High attention to detail and quality mindset• Leadership and influencing without direct authorityWorking ConditionsRegular visits to manufacturing facilities (internal and external), including travel to third-party co-manufacturing sites locally and internationally.Occasional work outside standard business hours during project launch phases, audits, or urgent production issues.Office-based with a significant portion of time spent on the production floor