Freelance Head of Packaging Technology (ZZP)

Please list all requirements and wishes and answer YES and provide an explanation, in addition to your motivation and CV.

Assignment duration: 12 months. (Subject to good performance, a transfer to an Akzo contract may be possible)

Location: The position could be based in Amsterdam or Sassenheim. The role involves supporting EMEA coatings sites across Europe and Africa, including Barcelona and the UK. There will be a 2-day trip once a month. According to Akzo's policy, it is generally 3 days a week in the office, but you’ll need to be there when required.

Hours: Preference for 40 hours per week, 32 hours is possible.

Are you an expert in packaging solutions ready to make an impact in a dynamic, international environment? Do you have a passion for quality, efficiency, and sustainability? Join our team as a Regional Packaging Manager and play a key role in developing future-proof packaging solutions.

What will you do?

As a Regional Packaging Manager, you will be responsible for managing and optimizing our packaging portfolio, ensuring quality standards, and driving harmonization across the region. You will collaborate closely with various internal and external stakeholders to deliver packaging solutions that meet functional and sustainability requirements.

Your key responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with the packaging and production teams to establish standards and specifications.

• Coordinating with Sourcing & Procurement and packaging suppliers to deliver optimal solutions.

• Supporting commercial teams in selecting packaging formats.

• Ensuring packaging formats are compatible with production lines and meet quality standards.

• Harmonizing packaging portfolios across the region to improve efficiency.

• Managing escalations, such as customer complaints, and resolving them through root cause analyses.

• Ensuring supply security and developing sustainable packaging solutions.

• Proposing and implementing best practices to optimize packaging strategies.

• Building knowledge and expertise to serve as a leader in the packaging domain.

What do you bring?

• A BSc/MSc degree or equivalent in System/Packaging Science, Technical Engineering, or Material Design.

• At least 5 years of relevant experience in packaging technology within manufacturing, R&D, or procurement.

• Proven experience managing a packaging portfolio with a focus on specifications, logistics, and functional requirements.

• Knowledge of sustainable packaging solutions and compliance regulations.

• Strong project management skills and experience working with cross-functional teams.

• Excellent communication skills in English.

• A hands-on approach with strong problem-solving capabilities.

• Experience in a multinational environment and willingness to travel regionally.