Manager, Packaging Design - Girls Brands

As the Manager of Packaging Design, you will be responsible for managing a dedicated team of packaging designers across multiple designated brands. You will collaborate with them in designing cost-effective, attractive, functional, and safe packaging for 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 packing department for assigned brands. You will also act as a support for the senior leadership within the team, and lead, mentor and train junior staff.

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.
• Lead development of innovative packaging design systems that are functional while also maintaining the aesthetics and brand integrity to meet packaging objectives.
• Recognize team strengths and skill sets and provides mentorship to Senior Designers, Designers, associate packaging designers, nurturing their professional growth and skills development.
• Support Senior Manager, Director and above.
• Advise individual goal-setting process for team members.
• Document and lead mid-year and yearly performance reviews of junior staff.
• Delegate tasks and responsibilities across the team to enhance and develop skill sets.
• Assist documentation of team Key Performance Indicators.
• Manage development of packaging designs for fit, structure, function, suitable materials, quality, cost effectiveness, manufacturability, transportation, industry best practices, and high standards of the brand.
• Ensure cohesion between available packaging materials and the aesthetics and functionality of the final product.
• Provide Art Direction and inspiration of strong design execution for the team.
• Guide team on research of consumer and market trends for packaging materials.
• Responsible for managing time-line requirements and maintaining schedule to support production, and communicating with Senior Director on updates, progress, objectives, and any issues.
• Lead communication with cross-function teams to quickly and efficiently resolve any issues.
• Manage team implementation of strategies across product lines.
• Lead cross functional team meetings with domestic and international teams.
• Lead communication with Asia packaging team throughout all stages of development; ensure team is following all proper steps of communication.
• Manage projects with outside vendors.
• Responsible for ensuring packaging designs accurately represent the company’s brand.
• Enforce and track junior staff follow and fully execute all department processes.
• Ensure team is completing final mock-up designs using appropriate computer software.
• Manage workflow development of mock-up packaging for all Sales and Trade-show events, ensuring timely readiness for these important occasions.
• Ensure final art is submission ready for licensor approvals.
• Leads Communication with licensors as needed.
• Follow workflow and sign-off protocols to ensure final deliverables are error-free.
• Prep final files for production and work with the production team on specifics such as Pantone matching, proofing, etc.
• Responsible for approval of print proofs and samples (FEP’s) before going into production.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, art, industrial design, or related field.
• 3-5 years of package design experience in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry, ideally in the girl's toy category including small dolls, girls' collectibles, fashion dolls, large dolls, playsets, soft goods, plush, and role play.
• 2+ years of direct leadership experience.
• Experience working with style guides and mock-ups.
• Experience in trade show design.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office & G-Suite.
• Strong proficiency in adobe creative suite (illustrator, photoshop, and InDesign).
• Working knowledge of printing processes (4 colors, spot colors, mechanical preparation, paper stock, and file formats).
• Clear understanding of print expectations, including, bleeds, die lines, retouching, formats, resolution, etc.
• Excellent graphic design skills and ability to art direct.
• An eye for innovation and creativity.
• Able to make strategic, well-informed decisions and meet deadlines.
• Conceptual skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop productive and professional relationships.
• Effective and efficient visual, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Exceptional project management skills.
• Exhibit interest and proactively gain knowledge of the current trends/innovations as well as an understanding of the competitive marketplace in the toy industry.
• Able to work cross-functionally and reciprocally with multiple departments.
• Able to work independently or collaboratively.
• Proficient project management skills.
• Knowledge of materials and multiple manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of working with licensed brands.
• Exceptional visual, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Able to multitask, organize, prioritize, and manage time efficiently.
• Demonstrates a strong design sense, including a well-developed sense of aesthetics.
• Can easily adapt to shifting priorities, and can manage multiple priorities at one time, while also demonstrating vigilance in keeping projects moving forward and hitting deadlines.

What we offer:

At Jazwares, we believe in providing our employees with comprehensive and competitive benefits that support their well-being and overall satisfaction.

The salary range for this position is $90,000.00 - $120,000.00/Yr. Base salary may vary based on experience, role tenure, performance, industry, and location. Eligibility for annual performance incentives may apply. Jazwares is a multi-state employer, 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 a 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 have the opportunity to volunteer for up to 16 hours a year on community service projects.

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.

Humility:

We recognize the value in others and treat everyone with respect. Our strength lies in our people and talent.

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.

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.