Head of Graphics APAC

The Graphics Production Manager APAC plays a role in achieving our brand-building and growth journey, with the aim to develop next-generation Royal Canin packaging and brand experiences. This furthers the distinctiveness, relevance and impact of the number one global pet nutrition brand worldwide, delivering our purpose to serve the health of millions of cats and dogs around the world.

Within the framework of ROYAL CANIN’s packaging roadmap, following premium brand values & sustainable development engagement, the APAC Graphics Production Manager will be responsible for the production of packaging with our suppliers while respecting internal deadlines, regulatory requirements and processes. This role will manage a group of Graphics Production Officers to ensure excellent execution of the regional / local project pipelines, in line with the business strategy and following Royal Canin’s Graphics Production process. Whilst the role is a line manager, it is also expected to have a hands-on role for larger scale projects and specific initiatives.

The role will be part of ESO (Enterprise Strategy Operationalization), one new agnostic functional team which interconnects key execution resources, focussed on ‘Harmonizing enterprise resources with strategic objectives, fostering cross-functional collaboration, And prioritizing initiatives for optimal delivery and quality outcomes’

The role is a mix of Hands-on Contribution, actively participating in the creation and execution of projects that involve packaging creation (innovation / renovation, maintenance, Do it Best initiatives), balancing managerial duties with direct involvement in packaging production tasks.

The role will manage 4 direct reports based in local markets, and will provide the guidance and support required, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. 

Key Responsibilities – Leadership in the region:

• Represent the Graphics Production team within the cluster, ensuring adherence to Graphics global process and systems, and reporting unexpected changes or local needs, issues and constraints
• Represent the Graphics Production function within regional forums (GPMRs, SteerCos, etc.)
• Ensure the capabilities/feasibility to deliver the innovation/renovation/regulatory roadmap & timeline, guaranteeing adherence to global processes

Key Responsibilities – Line Management:

• Team Leadership and Development: Provide guidance, support, and training to team members, fostering a positive and productive work environment
• Performance Management: Monitor and evaluate team members’ performance, offering feedback and implementing improvement plans to ensure team goals are met
• Resource Allocation: Efficiently allocate tasks and resources, ensuring that team members have the necessary tools and support to complete their work effectively

Key Responsibilities – Graphics Production Management:

• Lead graphic production projects in the different locations that belong to the cluster
• Ensure robust project management for the initiatives under his/her charge, accomplish Right First time and On time for artwork/reprofile delivery, while escalating risks when needed.
• Be a local champion of and adhere to Global graphics processes, using the correct systems and tools, and escalating issues to EP3 Master User.
• Participate in alignment meetings with key internal stakeholders (Activity Managers, Regulatory).
• Work collaboratively with the Design and Print Production teams to ensure print quality, timeline & regulatory compliance
• Lead the relationship with external suppliers (agencies, photoengravers and printers) in the region, including communication, performance tracking and contract management for regional Artwork suppliers
• Take accountability for Budget Management in the region (manage forecasts, traceability and reporting to ensure estimates are met)
• Manage KPIs, ensuring timely delivery and enabling decision-making based on data

• Share and deploy good practices and support a learning culture
• Lead improvement workstreams and participate in wider ESO Agenda & Team

• APAC region
• All Mars Petcare brands managed by Royal Canin teams
• All packaging technologies
• The role will interact with ~20 suppliers, including production agencies, translation agencies, photoengravers, and printers

Education & Professional Qualification:

• Higher Education Qualification or relevant Experience
• 3 to 5 years professional experience in packaging production or any related field
• Fluent in English, other languages are a plus

Knowledge/Skills:

• Strong Process mindset and Project Management skills
• Effective multi-tasker with strong time management skills and an ability to adapt quickly to changing environments.
• Structured ways of working, good perception of processes required to achieve results
• High level of proactiveness and willingness to take responsibility
• Good communication skills, ability to communicate well with the different interfaces (internal-external), report sticking points to the relevant people transparently and objectively
• A good understanding of how the company works, organizational skills, determination, teamwork
• Adherence to defined processes while under pressure is required to achieve results.
• Ability to organize work to match available resources
• A good knowledge of the technical aspects of the Packaging Graphics Production Process (Artwork production, Repro, Printing)
• Understanding of Packaging Material and Printing technology
• Agility to solve complicated situations
• Very customer-oriented, able to focus on the end result and stick to the objective
• Attention to details

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.