Description & Requirements Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

The Manager of Front-End Innovation (FEI) is responsible for driving early-stage innovation by translating strategic customer and market needs as well as key internal stakeholder feedback into viable technical project opportunities. This role will lead ideation workshops, manage the innovation pipeline, and explore open innovation partnerships to seed future growth. A strong understanding of packaging trends, unmet customer needs, and cross-industry innovation is essential to shaping a forward-looking R&D portfolio.

               

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

 

Own and manage the FEI pipeline, guiding opportunity identification and prioritization in alignment with innovation strategyFacilitate voice of customer (VOC) discovery sessions and engage key internal stakeholders to define unmet needs and innovation whitespaceTranslate high-level insights into clearly scoped technical challenges and project chartersPartner with external collaborators (startups, universities, suppliers) to explore open innovation opportunitiesCollaborate with Product Development and Commercialization teams to ensure continuity from concept to scaleTrack and report on innovation portfolio health, including risk, ROI, and technical feasibility

 

What you need to succeed:

Bachelor’s degree required in Engineering, Business Innovation, Packaging Science, or related field; MBA or advanced degree a plus10+ years of experience in innovation, strategy, R&D, or marketing roles within the packaging, CPG, or manufacturing industriesProven track record in managing early-stage innovation pipelines and translating insights into actionable project chartersStrong understanding of design thinking, DVF framework, customer discovery and VOC methodologiesExperience identifying and evaluating open innovation partnerships with startups, universities, or external collaboratorsExcellent communication, facilitation, and storytelling skills to influence cross-functional teams and leadershipComfortable working in ambiguous, fast-paced environments with a strong bias toward action and learning

What We Offer

A corporate culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellenceA competitive salary and bonus structure that reflects skills, competencies and potentialComprehensive training and development opportunitiesCareer growth within a global packaging leader where safety, quality, sustainability and people are fundamental to daily operations Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.