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:
• • Engage with customers and agencies to create accurate content and printing artwork files against all timelines and budgets.
  • Collaborate with internal and external customers, pre-media and print vendors to execute packaging graphic projects against procedures, objectives, timing, and project budgets.
  • Review and approve artwork to ensure accuracy and compliance with corporate, industry, print, government regulations and retailer guidelines.
  • Review, approve, and process cost estimate and invoices related to artwork development projects.
• 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 job function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, 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.