Development & Packaging Innovation Manager

Driven to create unique home-grown food concepts that bring people together, the Independent Food Company is a UAE-based hospitality company with multiple concepts under its umbrella – SALT, Parker's, Somewhere, Public, Soil, Shalwa and Kumo.

We are presently seeking to hire a highly qualified Development & Packaging Innovation Manager, who is responsible for how the brand is physically experienced by the customer. You sit at the intersection of creativity, sustainability, and functionality, constantly pushing the boundaries of packaging design and material science to ensure products are not only beautiful and eco-friendly but also optimized for the rigors of delivery and logistics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the research and development of next-generation packaging solutions that enhance food integrity, temperature control, and the overall unboxing experience.
• Scout and partner with global and local manufacturers to source cutting-edge, sustainable materials that align with the brand's commitment to reducing environmental impact.
• Manage the end-to-end innovation pipeline, from initial 3D prototypes and structural design to rigorous stress-testing and final production.
• Collaborate with the Creative and Brand teams to ensure that every piece of packaging serves as a premium canvas for the brand's visual identity and storytelling.
• Optimize packaging dimensions and materials for cost-efficiency and logistics, ensuring structural integrity while minimizing storage space and shipping weight.
• Stay ahead of global trends in "smart packaging" and sustainability regulations within the UAE and GCC, ensuring the brand remains a market leader in innovation.
• Work closely with the Supply Chain and Operations teams to seamlessly integrate new packaging designs into the daily workflow of kitchens and delivery fleets.