Graphics Manager

Job Summary:

The Graphics Manager position is responsible for the overall ownership, management and execution of comprehensive Brand and Graphic Design projects for SunOpta. They will cross-functionally collaborate to manage the execution of artwork development projects to align with SunOpta and our Customers strategies and timelines. Our customers are a combination of Private Brand Retailers, Food Service operators, and CPG Brand Owners.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Identify and support development of best-in-class design and packaging graphics management processes and approach through process mapping and improvement, SOP creation, and inter-team training. 
• Identify the optimal process, technology, and resources needed to meet SunOpta and our customers’ expectations. 

Organizational Lead to:

• Demonstrate expertise of products, categories, and print requirements to drive speed to market, reduce redundancy, minimize inaccuracy, and drive cost and process efficiencies.
• Establish execution strategies for the introduction of customer new product launches, line extensions, redesigns, product improvement projects, cost-savings projects, and on-pack promotions. 
• Delegate job responsibilities among resources (internal and external) and oversee that quality work is being completed within the deadline. 
• Supervise and execute activities including creation of packaging graphics, logos, brochures, advertisements, and other forms of visual communication.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Outside agencies and other resources as needed to support project demands.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Design, Graphic Communication, Art, or related major.

Experience:

• Minimum of 7+ years’ experience in Packaging Graphics with at least 5+ years’ experience managing other designers. 
• Experience in food industry, preferably Consumer Packaged Goods manufacturing or retail is preferred. 
• Experience in Private Brands is strongly preferred.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and the ability to work effectively across the organization and foster teamwork cross-functionally. 
• Strong project management, time management, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills a must. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills along with excellent presentation skills 
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective relation building capacity with customers and internal team at different levels in the organization 
• Strong project management and organizational skills 
• Knowledge of packaging graphics including best practices in technology, usability, and user experience. 
• Can interface with customers effectively and with confidence. 
• Must be detail oriented and well organized. 
• Strong delegation power 
• Ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize different tasks. 
• Knowledge of FDA, USDA and UPC compliance a plus (knowledge base across all categories). 
• Highly organized and detail oriented 
• Familiarity with both Mac and PC platforms 
• Working knowledge in PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook 
• Navigational knowledge of Adobe software

Travel Requirements:

• Up to 10% travel required to various SunOpta locations and for meetings or other job-related functions and occasional customer visits or industry events.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

• Approximately 95% of work is done in an office environment; 5% of work may be performed in a manufacturing environment.