Print Quality Management Lead

Kellogg s; Salford; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging company is seeking a Print Quality Management Lead for a 12-month fixed-term contract in Salford. This role entails ownership of print quality development across packaging portfolios, ensuring compliance with design standards and driving continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include leading design reviews, managing print trials, and enhancing print quality while coaching team members. Strong experience in print production methods and excellent communication skills are essential. A hybrid work model is available with occasional travel.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of production methods including flexographic, lithographic, and gravure printing.
• Hands-on experience with artwork development platforms.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials and inks.
• Proven project management skills and collaboration ability.
• Demonstrated capability to drive innovation in packaging.

Responsibilities

• Lead design reviews for print accuracy and feasibility.
• Prepare and execute print trials with detailed coordination.
• Introduce new printing techniques and cost-saving opportunities.
• Streamline workflows to improve production efficiency.
• Coordinate with multifunctional teams for trial planning.
• Oversee quality approval workflows and documentation.
• Coach junior roles in print quality management.

Skills

Print production methods

Artwork development platforms

Packaging materials knowledge

Project management

Innovation in packaging

Communication skills

Job description

As a Print Quality Management Lead on a 12‑month fixed‑term contract, you will own the end‑to‑end development and delivery of print quality across all Kellanova packaging portfolios. This includes ensuring full compliance with global design and colour standards, securing production feasibility, and driving continuous improvement in innovation, cost optimisation, and operational efficiency. You will be accountable for flawless execution from initial design intent through to final print, proactively identifying and managing risks throughout the process.

The role reports to the Packaging Design Leader and requires strong cross‑functional collaboration with internal teams, including Brand Design, Marketing, Procurement and Supply Chain, as well as external partners such as printers, engravers, ink suppliers and colour separation studios.

The position is primarily based at our Media City office with hybrid home working and will involve occasional travel within the UK and to Germany.

A Taste of What You’ll Be Doing

• Artwork & Design Leadership: Lead artwork and design reviews, validating accuracy, feasibility and alignment with printer specifications through flat‑file checks, concept reviews and proof approvals.
• Print Trial Ownership: Prepare and execute print trials by defining scope, coordinating offline/online trials, qualifying new colours and assessing substrates, lines and special effects.
• Innovation & Cost Efficiency: Drive innovation by introducing new printing techniques, special effects and cost‑saving opportunities across inks, substrates and tooling.
• Workflow & Process Optimisation: Streamline production workflows and approval processes to improve efficiency, reduce lead times and support effective printer operations.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with Procurement, Marketing, Toolmakers, Suppliers and Printers to align trial planning and deliver samples for new items or colours.
• Quality Approval & Documentation: Oversee approval workflows, validate print tool files, monitor first runs, conduct Print Quality Assessments and manage digital systems and documentation.
• Continuous Improvement & Coaching: Enhance print quality and colour management through continuous improvement, while coaching GL2 PQM roles to build capability and succession.

We’re Looking for Someone With

• Deep knowledge of print production methods, including flexographic, lithographic and gravure printing, as well as colour management best practices.
• Hands‑on experience with artwork development platforms (e.g., Dragonfly) and expertise in evaluating print quality.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials, substrates, inks, varnishes and specialty print finishes.
• Proven ability to manage projects effectively and collaborate across multifunctional teams.
• Demonstrated capability to drive innovation and identify cost‑efficient solutions in packaging development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in the printing industry, quality management or brand design is considered an advantage.

What’s Next

After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. If you join our team, you’ll be rewarded for the difference you make. Our comprehensive benefits offer you the support you need through your life events, big or small.

Need assistance throughout the application or hiring process? Email [e-mail]

We’re an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table and embraces the diverse talent of our people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.