Job Description

Winpak is seeking a Premade & Spouted Pouch Product Manager to join the Research and Development team based out of Winnipeg, Manitoba.



Reporting to the VP of Technology & Innovation, the Premade Pouch Product Manager is responsible for all technical aspects of the product, including bill of materials, production routes, capacity, optimization, and development. You will also handle competitive analysis, product positioning, and product marketing.



Working closely with Market Directors and BU Operations/Technical teams, you'll manage the product roadmap to support growth across existing and potential markets. This includes product innovation, next-gen improvements, technological advancements, and capacity planning.



The Product Manager plays a key role in cost management, driving cost-saving initiatives through specification optimization, manufacturing efficiency, waste reduction, and improved service and lead times. You'll oversee the product development process from concept to commercialization, collaborating with R&D, representing the product to clients and internal teams, and leading capital projects. Additionally, you'll create product strategy, competitive analyses, and marketing materials for both internal and external audiences. Join us and play a pivotal role in driving success and innovation within our organization.


Key Responsibilities:



Product Management & Development


• Oversee all technical aspects, quality, and sustainability of products, ensuring continuous optimization and development of both existing and new product lines.
• Lead new product development from conception to commercialization, collaborating with R&D, Operations, and Sales to manage product testing, prototyping, and market launch.
• Manage the product roadmap, aligning product development with market needs and growth strategies, in close coordination with Market Directors and Operations.
• Drive cost improvements for the product, optimizing the bill of materials, manufacturing processes, and logistics to reduce expenses.
• Interface with internal teams (Sales, R&D, Operations, Marketing) to ensure the product aligns with market demands, client feedback, and business needs.


Operational Efficiency & Compliance


• Lead asset optimization initiatives with Operations, focusing on asset utilization, production rates, efficiency, and waste reduction at production sites.
• Ensure full compliance with all relevant food and drug regulations, internal Winpak policies, and local market requirements for the product.
• Coordinate and manage the product's budget, including development, marketing activities, and strategic reporting.


Client & Market Engagement


• Support RFQs, bids, and client initiatives, ensuring product specifications and features are well-prepared to maximize Winpak's opportunities in various markets.
• Provide relevant training and support for internal and client-facing teams, ensuring proper product knowledge is shared across markets.
• Participate in trade shows, technical meetings, and other market-related representations to support Winpak's growth.


Cross-Functional Collaboration & Reporting


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to track product performance, share updates, and gather feedback to continuously refine product strategies.
• Stay updated on industry trends, competitive offerings, and emerging technologies, and provide recommendations for new opportunities and improvements.
• Promote effective communication and teamwork across the organization, ensuring alignment with Winpak's objectives.




Required Qualifications:


• Bachelor of Science in Polymer, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering, Material Sciences, Packaging Engineering or a comparable technical degree
• 10+ years of experience in leading technical or R&D projects or product management, preferably within the packaging industry
• 5+ years of experience with technical understanding of packaging materials, client processes, and manufacturing in food, pharmaceutical, or medical device sectors, including converting processes and equipment.
• 5+ years of experience managing complex variables and working in a matrix environment to build consensus and motivate teams.
• 5+ years of experience in project management, with the ability to meet schedules and budgets
• 5+ years of experience in commercial aspects of materials, manufacturing, sales, and marketing, demonstrating business acumen.


Preferred Qualifications:


• Master's or Ph.D. in a related field would be an asset
• 3+ years of experience making sound decisions, resolving complex issues, and demonstrating organizational and problem-solving skills.
• 5+ years of experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• 3+ years of experience building relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• 3+ years of experience in effective communication, including presenting senior and executive leadership


Additional Details:


• This position is 100% onsite
• This position requires domestic and international travel up to 25% of the time



Why Winpak?

Winpak is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to support the physical, mental, financial and social well-being of our employees and their families. Our benefit package includes the following:


• Medical, dental, vision & prescription coverage
• Travel coverage
• Disability coverage
• Voluntary life insurance
• Life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance
• Tuition assistance program
• Retirement Savings Plan
• A comprehensive employee and family assistance program which includes short term counselling, wellbeing coaching, financial and legal consultations services.


Winpak's vision is to provide the best packaging solutions for people and planet. We are a leading supplier of innovative packaging solutions, known for providing high-quality products that meet the needs of a variety of industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products. With a commitment to sustainability, safety, and excellence, Winpak continues to grow as a global leader in the packaging industry.


At Winpak, inclusion is one of our core values. We believe that an inclusive culture fosters a sense of belonging, drives innovation, and provides our brand a competitive advantage. Our goal is to create an environment free from harassment and discrimination, and where every individual feels respected, valued, and appreciated.


As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to an equitable and inclusive recruitment process, evaluating applicants based on merit, capability, and qualifications related to the job - never on identity factors such as race, color, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, national origin, or any other protected status. To support this commitment, if you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure your needs are met.