Packaging Category Manager/Expert (d/f/m)

What you´ll do

• Act as the global technical authority for a specific packaging category (e.g., rigid plastics, foils, flexible films, metal packaging), maintaining in-depth expertise on materials, production technologies, performance characteristics, and supplier landscape
• Lead standardization and rationalization efforts across global packaging specifications within the assigned category, identifying opportunities to reduce complexity, cost, and inefficiencies
• Develop packaging solutions for projects requiring new packaging, working closely with the Packaging Project Implementation team, which owns the end-to-end project execution
• Ensure timely delivery of robust, “first-time-right” packaging specifications that meet technical, regulatory, and functional requirements
• Monitor and evaluate emerging technologies, materials, and category trends. Translate opportunities into actionable development or optimization initiatives in alignment with strategic priorities and sustainability targets
• Contribute technical leadership to packaging development in innovation, renovation, or sustainability-driven projects. Ensure category-specific feasibility, manufacturability, and performance throughout project lifecycles
• Identify strategic suppliers and converters for the category. Manage technical relationships, lead qualification processes, and ensure materials and components meet performance, quality, and sustainability standards
• Ensure developed packaging solutions in the category support Henkel’s sustainability targets and comply with global packaging regulations, including recyclability, circularity, and materials compliance

What makes you a good fit

• University degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in packaging development or category management, with strong expertise in one or more specific packaging categories
• Deep technical expertise in packaging innovation, material optimization, and regulatory compliance (e.g., PPWR, recyclability, food contact)
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects in global, matrixed environments with strong collaboration and stakeholder influence
• Strategic yet detail-oriented mindset with strong analytical, communication, and project coordination skills
• Fluent in English; additional languages are a plus

This position can also be filled in Dublin or Barcelona, with a frequent presence in Düsseldorf required.

Some perks of joining Henkel

• Globally wellbeing standards with health and preventive care programs
• Gender-neutral parental leave for a minimum of 8 weeks
• Employee Share Plan with voluntary investment and Henkel matching shares
• Company Pension Plan 100% financed by Henkel
• MEGA Preventive Health Insurance
• CareFlex Supplementary Care Insurance
• Mobility offer: My Henkel Bike and Jobticket

At Henkel, we come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe the uniqueness of all our employees is the power in us. Become part of the team and bring your uniqueness to us! We welcome all applications across different genders, origins, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, generations and disabilities. If there are any specific accommodations or adjustments you require for the interview process or your on-site appointment, please inform us, and we'll do our best to accommodate your requests.