Job Description Reporting to the Head of NPD, we are looking to recruit a Design Manager- NPD & Packaging, to be responsible for the management of own brand product and packaging projects. This would suit a true visionary – somebody who is always thinking about the next great idea and driving positive change through its delivery. Although this is a senior management role requiring a strategic mind, a hands-on approach is essential. Job Responsibilities: Good commercial awareness of competitors through research online and competitor shopping Responsible for managing multiple projects through the studio following a critical path and liaising with key stakeholders Manage your allocated budget for each project through tracking spend and informing the Head of NPD Attending briefings and presentations with Trading Controllers and Buyers and following the creative briefing process Liaising with the Far East Office to oversee print production across all projects Ensuring that all own brand design projects are in line with the stationery strategy, on-brand, market-leading, innovative, creative, commercial and customer focussed Develop detailed creative briefs that ensures the design output is aligned with the commercial team’s objectives Ensuring that all creative work has appropriate input from Head of NPD and Group Creative Director Ensuring design integrity is followed through all projects through to final artworks Job Requirements: A strong appreciation of design, branding and the creative process gained from either working for a design agency/consultancy or working in-house for retail Highly motivated and confident with the initiative to deliver a high volume of projects to brief, to deadline, within budget and to an extremely high level of creative excellence Graduate calibre or equivalent with experience in the product or retail sector Relevant experience working on Product and Packaging for retail Commercially astute with a strong understanding of business The skills to see the ‘bigger picture’ with an ‘eagle eye’ on the detail Fully competent in using Excel and Microsoft Word and Mac experience would be a bonus not essential Highly organised skills and good communication across all areas Experienced in working in a fast-paced environment and able to stay calm under pressure Job Details Company: WHSmith Vacancy Type: Full Time Job Location: Swindon, England, UK Application Deadline: N/A Apply Here getyourvacancy.com