Packaging Designer

Design Manager/Senior Designer – Consumer Packaging
Industry: Printed folded cartons
Office based with travel to customers

About the business

Our client is a well-established, family-rooted packaging provider with a heritage stretching back more than 80 years. The company specialises in fibre-based packaging solutions — from corrugated cardboard and rigid cartons to premium folding cartons and fully custom, brand-tailored packaging.

Serving both food and non-food sectors, their portfolio spans standard bulk shipping boxes, transport-ready corrugated cartons, as well as high-end “luxury look and feel” packaging used for products such as cosmetics, confectionery, or other premium goods.

Beyond packaging manufacturing, the business offers a full-service approach: from initial design and printing, through die-cutting, folding and gluing, to full automated packaging-line solutions when required.

Their emphasis on sustainability — recyclable materials, efficient use of cardboard, and environmentally-aware production — is integrated into their operations and value proposition. Positioned as a reliable and flexible partner, the company supports both small bespoke runs and larger industrial scale packaging demands, offering a wide range of customization in size, shape, printing, and finishing.

We are looking for a talented and experience senior designer / design manager with extensive experience of structural design of paper based packaging.

This site produces a range of paper based packaging solutions such as counter displays, folding boxes and cards for a range of domestic and international customers.

This role reports into the Head of Production and Technical Department and will manage the project department made up of two people. Lead the creative development of packaging concepts the full suite of product groups (folding cartons, counter displays and cards)
Translate brand strategy and consumer insight into compelling, shelf-ready designs
Take ownership of projects from concept, design development, and artwork through to print approval
Ensure designs are technically accurate and production-ready, collaborating closely with pre-press, print, and suppliers
Mentor and support junior designers, providing creative direction and feedback
Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and quality standards
Stay up to date with packaging trends, materials, sustainability, and print innovations

Can demonstrate significant experience of operating in a senior design or design leadership position with a proven track record of structural design of folding cartons or paper based packaging.
Strong understanding of print processes, materials, finishes, and production constraints
Knowledge and experience of design software (2D), with experience of using Artioscad or Autocad.
Comfortable with being in the office (NW Milan location) daily if not travelling to see customers. Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects
Apart from Native Italian, speak a good level of English language, due to international nature of the business and their customers.

Remuneration / Package

Permanent Italian contract
Salary dependant on experience and will be discussed at first stage meeting with Chris Parnham
Company Car
Legally required insurances / social insurances / pensions / medical / Restaurant ticket (€8 per day)
Chris Parnham – Director – Packaging Recruitment 0044 (0)7393 819216 / chris.