Manager, Packaging Design - Boys (Plush & Plastics)

The Manager of Packaging Design is responsible for managing packaging designers across multiple designated brands, with a primary focus on boys' brands across both plush and plastic toy lines. You will collaborate with team members to design  cost-effective, attractive, functional, and safe packaging for our consumer products. You will be responsible for the conceptualization, design, and execution of prototypes for attention-grabbing packaging materials—using design elements such as shape, color, graphics, and typography to create packaging that resonates with our target markets. In your role, you will influence all consumer-facing design initiatives in our packaging department for assigned brands.

What You Will Do: 

• Manage and guide the design and development process (including brainstorming, design, prototype development, and production) while ensuring deliverables are met within scheduled deadlines
• Develop innovative packaging design systems that are functional while also maintaining the aesthetics and brand integrity to meet packaging objectives
• Evaluate packaging designs for fit, structure, function, suitable materials, quality, cost effectiveness, manufacturability, transportation, industry best practices, and high standards of the brand
• Evaluate consumer and market trends for packaging materials
• Manage time-line requirements and maintaining schedule to support production, and communicating with leaders and global counterparts on updates, progress, objectives, and any issues
• Work closely with senior mangers to quickly and efficiently resolve any issues
• Work collaboratively to develop and implement strategies across product lines
• Lead and attend cross functional team meetings
• Manage outsourced projects as required
• Collaborate with cross functional departments to produce functional, yet eye catching packages
• Ensure packaging designs accurately represent the company’s brand
• Complete final mock-up designs using computer modeling software
• Prepare submissions for licensor approval
• Follow workflow and sign-off protocols to ensure final deliverables are error-free
• Prepare 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 production
• Have ownership over various packaging projects and work with outside vendors to help execute as needed
• Bring cohesion between available packaging materials and the aesthetics and functionality of the final product
• Participate in all stages of the employee life cycle for packaging design team
• Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisor Responsibilities

Manages People: Yes

What We Are Looking For: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Art, Industrial Design, or a related field is a plus

• 3–5 years of package design experience in consumer products, with a primary focus on toy packaging

• 2+ years of leadership/supervisory experience

• Experience working with style guides and packaging mock-ups

• Experience in trade show design and presentation

• Excellent graphic design skills with the ability to art direct

• An eye for innovation and creativity

• Ability to make strategic, well-informed design decisions and consistently meet deadlines

• Strong conceptual and visual problem-solving skills

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop productive and professional relationships

• Effective visual, verbal, and written communication skills

• Working knowledge of printing processes (4-color process, spot colors, mechanical preparation, paper stock, and file formats)

• Exceptional project management and organizational skills

• Clear understanding of print specifications and prepress expectations (bleeds, die lines, retouching, formats, resolution, etc.)

• Active interest in current market trends, package design innovations, and the competitive marketplace within the toy industry

• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office and G-Suite

• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign)

• Ability to work cross-functionally and collaboratively across multiple departments

• Ability to work independently or as part of a collaborative team

• Self-motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented

• Knowledge of packaging materials and multiple manuf