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The Executive Director of Package Design will lead all the strategic creative development and execution of all Estée Lauder brand primary and secondary packaging, seasonal, VIP gift sets, some promotional packaging, and creative mailers. This role drives creative innovations and must be able to identify new opportunities for the Estée Lauder brand.

The ED of Package Design should be an enthusiastic leader to lead and direct a dynamic team of creative individuals as well as external creative partners. They are an inspiring creative leader who delivers best‑in‑class thinking and execution against a strong brand foundation, while also exemplifying the challenger spirit.

• Develop the overall strategy of packaging activities
• Ensure a high level of excellence in all creative work produced and executed by the department is consistent, cohesive, meets Marketing objectives, and is within budget and timeframe. Interface with Global Marketing, Product Development and Packaging Engineering to coordinate packaging development and review status
• Lead Package Design team in generating innovative packaging according to the brand strategy and launch calendars. Oversee the design and production of all product packaging. Includes concept presentations (mood boards, drawings, renderings, and models), managing of departmental DTO’s, standards and attending pressruns
• Foster idea‑sharing and cross‑communications across Creative, Marketing, Packaging and Product Development to generate innovative designs according to brand strategy and launch calendars
• Work closely with Global Marketing and the head of creative coordinating product development, setting agendas and review status. Attend Senior PPD and task force meetings specific to projects being developed
• Oversee sourcing and utilize outside vendors, artists and designers for new innovative package solutions. Negotiate fees and handle contracts
• Manage operating budget, tracking and timing of programs, billing records and related paperwork in an efficient manner
• Travel as needed for sourcing inspiration, approving production standards and final press runs.
• Work closely with all licensors, agencies and attend regular status meetings with
  various external groups
• Constantly strive for better, more innovative solutions for all projects.
• Be aware of and familiar with trends in culture, luxury arena, fashion, design, materials, technology and social media (to create innovative unboxing experience)
• Take ownership of deliverables and initiatives with acute attention to craft and detail
• Be able to present ideas to senior management team.
• Mentor and manage full‑time staff and freelancers involved in the conceptualization, design, development, and implementation of new creative solutions.
• Conceptualize new and innovative ideas
• Ensure execution of all products in accordance with SMI requirements.
• Be an expert in packaging and luxury space with a good eye in details and design.
• Deliver breakthrough packaging design to reduce waste while elevating luxury cues.
• Align packaging activities with brand sustainability goals
• Maintain knowledge of packaging sustainability best practices and industry innovations

• Bachelor’s degree in a design‑related field required
• 10+ years of design experience, including management experience, with a strong concentration in the beauty industry or a related luxury consumer goods industry
• Strong understanding of all areas of branding, including PR, Creative, Product Development, Packaging Development & Engineering, and Marketing
• Conceptual thinker with a strong sensibility for shape, form, structure, and 3D visualization; able to ideate, present, develop, and execute projects from concept through completion at the highest level of quality
• Highly organized and timely, with financial fluency and the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines, stay on budget, and adapt to changing priorities and creative direction
• Strong knowledge of industrial design, manufacturing processes, finishes, materials, and production feasibility
• Self‑motivated, resourceful, and collaborative, with a positive, solutions‑oriented attitude
• Innovative, strategic, and passionate creative thinker with strong problem‑solving skills and a deep understanding of consumer storytelling
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team
• Strong interpersonal skills and a team‑player mindset
• Ability to work effectively in a corporate, entrepreneurial, and matrixed environment
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, within a Mac environment
• Proficient in 3D CAD/modeling and rendering programs, including SolidWorks, Rhino and/or other 3D modeling software, as well as KeyShot rendering
• Skilled in integrating AI tools and emerging technologies into the packaging design process and workflow, including ideation, concept exploration, visualization, rendering, and presentation development; experience with AI programs such as Vizcom, Midjourney, Adobe Firefly, and/or similar platforms preferred
• Working knowledge of best practices for sustainable packaging
• Proven record of meeting packaging sustainability goals a plus