Design Manager

Design Manager/Senior Designer – Consumer Packaging

Industry: Printed folded cartons

Location: Milan (North West)

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.

The opportunity

What are we looking for?

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. This individual will play an important role in supporting the external sales team with new and existing customers.

Key Responsibilities

- 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
- Present concepts confidently to internal teams and external clients
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and quality standards
- Stay up to date with packaging trends, materials, sustainability, and print innovations

Key Requirements

- 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 Auotcad.
- Previous experience of working closely with customers and supporting external sales teams with technical presentations.
- Comfortable with being in the office (NW Milan location) daily if not travelling to see customers. Excellent attention to detail, particularly with artwork and final files
- Strong conceptual thinking combined with practical execution
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- 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

Fixed salary – dependant on experience and will be discussed at first stage meeting with Chris Parnham

Bonus scheme

Company Car

Legally required insurances / social insurances / pensions / medical / Restaurant ticket (€8 per day)

Up to Quadro level if required.

For more information, contact:

Chris Parnham – Director – Packaging Recruitment 0044 (0)7393 819216 / chris.parnham@pkgpartners.co.uk