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.