Packaging Operations Manager

The Role

As the Packaging Operations Manager, you’ll be the driving force behind how our body care products come to life — ensuring every new item, from concept to shelf, meets our standards of quality, beauty, and performance.

You’ll lead all operational aspects of new packaging development— focusing heavily on packaging sourcing, vendor management, and quality assurance. You’ll partner closely with Product Development, Design, and Operations to bring new launches to market efficiently and according to our standard. You’ll directly manage the Operations Associate, who executes day-to-day production, replenishment, and inventory operations. 

This role is both strategic and hands-on. Your focus will be on building scalable systems, leading vendor partnerships, and driving excellence in packaging development to support our fast-growing body care brand.

What You’ll Do

Packaging Development

• Oversee all packaging development from concept to production — including design intent, feasibility, sampling, testing, and approval.
• Source and evaluate new packaging vendors for a wide array of packaging components, including bottles, tops, tubes, amongst others.
• Partner with the CEO, Product Development and Design teams to translate brand concepts into functional, manufacturable packaging solutions.
• Lead packaging material selection based on functionality, compatibility with formulas, sustainability goals, and cost considerations.
• Manage packaging artwork timelines in collaboration with Design and vendors, ensuring dieline accuracy and print quality.
• Receive, organize, and evaluate all incoming packaging samples — including new vendor submissions, material proofs, and pre-production runs — to ensure quality, functionality, and brand alignment.
• Serve as the liaison between Design, Product Development, and external vendors to communicate feedback, manage revisions, and determine next steps for packaging refinement and approval.
• Drive cost analysis and negotiations with suppliers to optimize packaging spend while maintaining brand standards.
• Maintain and update packaging libraries and technical specifications to ensure cross-team visibility and consistency.

Quality Assurance & Process Implementation

• Develop and enforce QA standards and protocols for packaging and finished goods to ensure performance, durability, and brand alignment.
• Oversee Contract Manufacturer’s first production runs, and conduct transit testing, and any other applicable testing to validate new packaging.
• Create and manage internal packaging approval processes, ensuring alignment between Product Development, Marketing, and Operations.
• Establish vendor scorecards and performance metrics for quality, lead time, and responsiveness.
• In collaboration with our Product Development Team, partner with co-manufacturers and QA teams to ensure all packaging and product meet regulatory and compliance standards for personal care.

Operations & Replenishment

• Oversee the replenishment process through the Operations Associate — ensuring product availability, inventory accuracy, and vendor readiness.
• Collaborate with the Growth and Operations Team to develop demand forecasts and manage lead times.
• Evaluate potential implementation of operational systems and tools (ERP, project trackers, BOM management) to improve accuracy and visibility.
• Manage production timelines and critical paths for new launches and restocks, ensuring milestones are met.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (PD, Operations, Growth and Marketing) to deliver projects on time and within budget.

What You’ll Bring

• 4–6 years of experience in operations, packaging development, or supply chain within beauty or CPG.

• Proven track record of managing new product launches and packaging development cycles from ideation through production.
• Deep understanding of primary and secondary packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and supplier capabilities.
• Strong experience in vendor management, sourcing, and cost negotiation.
• Hands-on experience establishing QA protocols, running packaging trials, and implementing inspection processes.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills; able to manage multiple timelines simultaneously.
• Proficiency with ERP, PLM, or project management systems (e.g., Airtable).
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments and external partners.
• High attention to detail, analytical mindset, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Nice to Have

• Experience with sustainable packaging initiatives (refillable systems, eco-friendly packaging materials, innovative materials).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements in the beauty and personal care industry (FDA, Prop 65, etc.).
• Familiarity with global manufacturing and supply chains, including international sourcing and freight logistics.
• Background in formulation compatibility testing or working closely with R&D teams.
• Passion for innovation, design, and continuous improvement in packaging and operations.

Compensation: $85,000-$100,000 + early-stage equity.

Benefits: Health, vision, and dental insurance. 15 days paid time off, observed holidays, 5 days sick leave.