Associate Director - Global R&D Foods Packaging Materials

Overview Main Purpose: This role resides within the Packaging Science & Technology Center of Excellence in the Foods Packaging R&D organization. It provides subject matter expertise in flexible films formulation and application for the AMESA and APAC (Africa, Middle East and Asia) regions. The primary responsibility is to drive the development of sustainably advantaged materials for Snacks and Foods products, aligning with PepsiCo’s goals and commitments. Key activities include leading ideation and experimentation, collaborating with Regional & Global Packaging R&D, and engaging with Procurement to establish the materials agenda. Additionally, this role involves partnering with strategic suppliers to develop innovative solutions and capabilities, while serving as a technical coach to fellow engineers on resins and films. Responsibilities Accountabilities Develop breakthrough film formulations with suppliers that bring competitive advantage to the snack foods market for PEPSICO including superior product protection, operational performance and sustainability compliance. Support regional packaging teams in the space of flexible films development to deliver R & D Packaging agenda for AOP / Sustainability/ Productivity goals and resolving complex quality issues Define the attributes, opportunities, and trade-offs for flexible films in a way that allows risks to be properly identified and mitigated. Act as a subject matter expert in the Packaging R&D organization by providing relevant resins and film expertise to the team. Partner with Regional Packaging Leads and Global Procurement to establish film supply strategy and productivity agenda that achieve efficiency and best-in-class snacks packaging. Lead assessment of supplier capability and drive development opportunities to foster strategic supplier relationships that benefit PEPSICO. Identify and implement global best practice for flexible film specifications and evaluation methodologies across regions. Coach regional associates on materials knowledge and performance to elevate technical capability of the organization. Qualifications Qualifications Minimum bachelor’s degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science or an equivalent degree. Advanced degrees in these disciplines are preferred. Minimum 15 years of work experience related to packaging with 10 years minimum experience in the polyolefin resin or base BOPP/PE film industries. Skills & Competencies Expertise in Polymer Science: In-depth knowledge of BOPP, CPP, and PE film formulation and manufacturing, optimizing properties for food packaging applications. Material Design Translation: Ability to interpret functional and performance requirements of flexible materials, from base film design to conversion processes. Critical Quality Definition: Expertise in defining critical-to-quality attributes that can be monitored by suppliers and converters, ensuring risk assessment and mitigation. Ecosystem Awareness: Knowledge of the industry ecosystem to identify suitable partners based on technical capabilities and understanding of commercial and supply chain dynamics. Market Insight: Familiarity with the resins and flexible film landscape, enabling identification of potential partners for development and capability assessment. Critical Thinking: Strong problem-solving skills for addressing complex technical challenges. Business Acumen: Ability to connect technical outcomes with commercial applicability for strategic advantage. Equipment Experience: Seasoned understanding of printing, converting, and packaging equipment interactions. Effective Communication: Proficient in conveying technical information to senior leaders through impactful presentations and reports. Thought Leadership: Ability to challenge and influence suppliers in developing new technologies and materials that enhance competitive advantage. Innovative Mindset: Courage to advocate for new ideas and approaches. Driven and Composed: High energy and level-headed, with a strong focus on achieving results. Travel 20-30% primarily within AMESA and APAC.