Deputy Manager - Packaging

Responsibilities & Key Deliverables

The Deputy Manager – Packaging will be responsible for end-to-end packaging development, commercialization, and program management for new vehicle platforms and aftermarket spare parts. The role will drive packaging innovation, cost optimization, supplier collaboration, and commercial readiness to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective packaging solutions for both current and future product portfolios.

The incumbent will work closely with Cross Functional Teams (CFTs), suppliers, sourcing, SSC, SSU, CDMM, and manufacturing stakeholders to deliver packaging solutions aligned with quality, cost, delivery, and sustainability objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Packaging Development & Program Management

• Lead packaging design and development activities for new vehicle platforms and spare parts programs.
• Ensure packaging readiness and successful implementation prior to new product launches.
• Drive Design-to-Business (DTB) packaging development for existing and upcoming vehicle models.
• Manage packaging projects from concept to commercial implementation while ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.

2. Cost Management & Commercial Excellence

• Develop and maintain Should-Be Costing (SBC) models for all packaging material commodities.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives through value engineering and Zero-Based Costing methodologies.
• Support packaging commercial negotiations and settlements in collaboration with SSC, SSU, CDMM, and Sourcing teams.
• Identify opportunities for packaging standardization and material optimization.

3. Supplier Development & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Coordinate with supplier partners for packaging development, approvals, and commercialization.
• Facilitate Sign-Off Sheet completion and SBC alignment with spare parts suppliers.
• Work closely with Vendor Development and Sourcing teams for supplier selection, capability assessment, and cost competitiveness.
• Ensure supplier compliance with packaging specifications, quality standards, and delivery requirements.

4. Packaging Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Recommend innovative packaging materials and solutions to improve product protection, logistics efficiency, and sustainability.
• Analyze packaging performance and implement corrective actions to address field or operational concerns.
• Drive continuous improvement projects focused on cost reduction, quality enhancement, and process efficiency.

Preferred Industries

Education Qualification

• Bachelor's Degree / Diploma in Packaging Technology, Packaging Engineering, or related discipline.

General Experience

Experience

• 8–10 years of relevant experience in Packaging Development, Packaging Engineering, or Packaging Commercialization.
• Preferred experience in Automotive OEMs, Automotive Components, or Aftermarket/Spare Parts businesses.

Critical Experience

Technical Competencies

• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, packaging technologies, and packaging development processes.
• Expertise in packaging costing, Should-Be Costing (SBC), and value engineering methodologies.
• Understanding of automotive spare parts packaging, logistics, and supply chain requirements.
• Knowledge of supplier development and sourcing processes.

Behavioral Competencies

• Data-driven decision-making and strong analytical capability.
• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• High ownership, execution orientation, and problem-solving mindset.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
• Resilience and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

System Generated Core Skills

System Generated Secondary Skills