Experienced Packaging Strategy & Data Lead – Consumer Brands Packaging Development & Compliance

About ArenaFlex

Welcome to ArenaFlex — where innovation meets inspiration, and every team member plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of retail experiences. As one of the most beloved and recognizable brands in the United States, we take pride in delivering trendy, affordable, and high-quality products that millions of customers trust every day. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond our stores and into the very heart of our product development, supply chain operations, and packaging strategies that define the ArenaFlex shopping experience.

At ArenaFlex, we believe that great packaging is more than just a container — it tells a story, protects our products, and creates lasting impressions for our guests. Our Packaging Strategy & Data team is at the forefront of this mission, working diligently to develop packaging solutions that are sustainable, cost-effective, visitor-driven, and aligned with our brand identity. We are seeking a talented and experienced Packaging Strategy & Data Lead to joined our dynamic team and help drive innovation across all owned brands, exclusive partnerships, and travel merchandise categories.

This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a global scale, collaborating with cross-functional teams and international partners to shape the future of packaging at ArenaFlex. If you are passionate about data-driven decision making, packaging development, and want to be part of a company that values diversity, inclusion, and sustainability, we invite you to explore this exciting career opportunity.

Position Overview

The Packaging Strategy & Data Lead will serve as a subject matter expert and strategic partner in driving packaging excellence across ArenaFlex's owned brands and exclusive partnerships. This role requires a unique blend of technical expertise, analytical skills, and leadership abilities to manage packaging data requirements, develop taxonomy structures, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

As a key contributor to our Packaging organization, you will collaborate with procurement, design, store operations, marketing, supply chain, properties, and compliance teams to establish robust data requirements and flexible guidelines that reflect our commitment to safety, reliability, cost effectiveness, and performance. You will also be responsible for creating and managing change processes, developing innovative training programs, and driving best practices that position ArenaFlex as a leader in the retail packaging industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Requirements & Taxonomy Development: Build foundational data requirements, taxonomy structures, and specific business logic to support packaging design optimization and sustainability initiatives across all owned brand categories. Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and accessibility across multiple systems and stakeholder groups.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with procurement, design, store operations, marketing, supply chain, properties, and compliance program owners to establish relevant data requirements and flexible guidelines that consistently reflect our commitment to safety, reliability, cost effectiveness, and performance excellence.
• Change Management: Create and govern change management processes to ensure accurate packaging documentation management portfolios across numerous systems and partner teams. Implement best practices for documentation control and version tracking.
• Training & Development: Develop, manage, and execute innovative training and ongoing resources for internal and external audiences to drive comprehensive understanding of standards, specifications, and data accuracy best practices. Create engaging roadshows and communications that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Data Analysis & Optimization: Assess data requirements, standards, and specifications to optimize safe, reliable, and cost-effective solutions that align with industry standards, enhance good engineering practices, are consistent with risk tolerance assumptions, and maintain a leadership position in the industry.
• Cross-Functional Support: Offer support and guidance to cross-functional teams and colleagues to ensure proper interpretation and enactment of packaging data requirements, standards, and specifications. Serve as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert.
• Regulatory Compliance: Consult with appropriate internal governance and regulatory informed authorities, identifying effects on current data requirements and standards, taking action to mitigate risks and identify opportunities for continuous improvement and compliance excellence.
• Global Partnership: Work with cross-functional global partners to drive effective communication and roadshows around packaging development, compliance, and data accuracy best practice requirements and expectations.
• Performance Metrics: Use data to identify trends or issues, in collaboration with technology teams, to measure effectiveness of training delivered and communications sent. Develop dashboards and reporting mechanisms to track key performance indicators.
• Industry Research: Investigate industry trends and assess comparable data and standards practices, sharing insights and recommendations with the appropriate audience for continuous improvement and compliance excellence.
• Team Leadership: Provide leadership and guidance to others, driving effectiveness and efficiency in team outcomes. Mentor junior team members and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Culture Building: Create and maintain a positive team culture by demonstrating behaviors consistent with ArenaFlex's values of Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Drive. Ensure ongoing, effective communications to the team, and support individual development by providing regular performance feedback, coaching, recognition, and evaluation.
• Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned to support team objectives and organizational goals.

Essential Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Packaging Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. Equivalent years of experience will be considered in lieu of a formal degree.
• Experience: Minimum of 4+ years of experience developing and managing documentation and standards programs, preferably including packaging design and development. Experience with consumer products manufacturing or retail packaging is highly preferred.
• Leadership Skills: Ability to influence without authority, manage projects, work with groups, resolve conflict, build consensus, establish rapport, and collaborate effectively, both in-person and remotely, across all levels of an organization.
• Technical Expertise: Experience with documentation best practices, technical writing, and reporting. Proficiency in creating structured content and managing complex data sets.
• Training & Communication: Skilled at developing and advising on content, structure, and delivery of effective training programs, roadshows, and communications. Demonstrated ability to engage diverse audiences and drive comprehension.
• Project Management: Experience leading teams and/or projects, driving collaboration, empowerment, and cooperation among cross-functional stakeholders.
• Analytical Skills: Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, creative thinking, and analytical abilities. Proven track record of data-driven decision making and continuous improvement.
• Industry Knowledge: Related experience with packaging or consumer products manufacturing is strongly preferred. Understanding of packaging materials, sustainability practices, and industry regulations.
• Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with the capacity to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Adaptability: Flexibility and resilience; open to working in uncertain and rapidly evolving environments. Comfortable with ambiguity and able to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes.
• Time Management: Ability to prioritize, manage multiple assignments, and work independently in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Collaboration: Capacity to thrive, communicate, and lead in a highly collaborative environment. Experience working with global teams and cross-cultural stakeholders.
• Technology Proficiency: Strong capability in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel), with experience in data visualization and analysis tools. Familiarity with Vizio or similar business intelligence platforms is a plus.
• Inclusivity: Respects, appreciates, and values diverse voices and perspectives. Committed to creating equitable experiences and fostering an inclusive team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree or certifications in Packaging Engineering, Sustainability, or related fields
• Experience with retail or e-commerce packaging solutions
• Knowledge of international packaging regulations and standards (ISO, ASTM, etc.)
• Familiarity with sustainability frameworks and circular economy principles
• Experience in change management methodologies (e.g., ADKAR, Kotter)
• Project management professional certifications (PMP, Six Sigma)
• Experience working with ERP systems and product information management (PIM) platforms

Skills & Competencies Required for Success

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Ability to analyze complex data sets, identify patterns, and translate findings into actionable insights. Proficiency in data visualization and reporting tools.
• Strategic Thinking: Capable of developing long-term strategies that align with business objectives and industry trends. Strong business acumen and strategic planning skills.
• Stakeholder Management: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Experience managing expectations and driving consensus.
• Change Leadership: Proven ability to lead and manage change initiatives across diverse teams and geographies. Strong change management and communication skills.
• Innovation & Creativity: Creative thinker who can develop innovative solutions to complex packaging challenges. Open to new ideas and approaches.
• Continuous Learning: Commitment to staying current with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies. Proactive learner with a growth mindset.
• Results-Oriented: Demonstrated ability to deliver Measurable results and drive continuous improvement. Strong focus on outcomes and performance metrics.
• Team Building: Ability to foster a positive team culture, build trust, and develop team capabilities. Strong coaching and mentoring skills.

Career Growth Opportunities

At ArenaFlex, we are committed to investing in our employees' professional growth and career development. As a Packaging Strategy & Data Lead, you will have access to a wide range of growth opportunities, including:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into senior leadership roles within the Packaging organization, including Director or Vice President positions.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to work with various business units, including Procurement, Design, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Operations, providing broad industry experience.
• Global Experience: Collaboration with international teams and partners across multiple regions, including Asia, Europe, and the Americas, offering global business exposure.
• Professional Development: Access to comprehensive training programs, certifications, and development resources to enhance your skills and expertise.
• Innovation Projects: Involvement in cutting-edge packaging innovation projects, sustainability initiatives, and technology implementations.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunity to mentor junior team members and contribute to the development of future packaging leaders.

Work Environment & Culture

ArenaFlex is more than just a workplace — it is a community committed to making a positive impact. Our culture is built on core values that guide everything we do:

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and believe that different perspectives make us stronger. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of teamwork. Cross-functional collaboration is at the heart of our success, and we encourages open communication, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving.
• Drive: We are passionate about achieving excellence and continuously improving. We set ambitious goals and work tirelessly to exceed expectations.
• Sustainability: We are committed to responsible business practices and environmental stewardship. Our packaging initiatives focus on sustainability, waste reduction, and circular economy principles.
• Guest-Centricity: Everything we do is designed with our guests in mind. We strive to deliver exceptional experiences that surprise and delight our customers.

Our team enjoys a flexible work environment that supports both in-person collaboration and remote work. We offer hybrid work arrangements that allow team members to balance their professional and personal lives while staying connected to our mission and goals.

Compensation & Benefits

ArenaFlex is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive compensation package that reflects the value and expertise our team members bring to our organization. The starting hourly rate for this position is $26.00 per hour, with opportunities for overtime and performance-based incentives.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible team members and their dependents. We offer multiple plan options to meet diverse healthcare needs.
• Retirement Savings: A 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company matching contributions to help you build financial security for the future.
• Paid Time Off: Competitive paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and company-observed holidays.
• Employee Discounts: Exclusive team member discounts on ArenaFlex products and services, allowing you to experience our offerings firsthand.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid and flexible work schedules designed to accommodate various needs and promote work-life balance.
• Tuition Assistance: Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development to support your career growth.
• Wellness Programs: Comprehensive wellness initiatives promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being, including fitness memberships and mental health resources.
• Life Insurance: Life insurance coverage for eligible team members and their dependents.
• Parental Support: Parental leave and financial assistance for team members welcoming new children into their families.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges, including counseling and resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer

ArenaFlex is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

We will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities during the application process, upon request, as needed to comply with applicable laws. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact our HR team to discuss your needs.

How to Apply

Are you ready to join a dynamic team and make a meaningful impact on the future of packaging at ArenaFlex? We invite you to apply today and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online career portal. We review applications on a rolling basis and encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

Join us at ArenaFlex, where your passion, skills, and expertise will contribute to creating exceptional experiences for millions of customers worldwide. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!