Business Development & Product Innovation Manager Central Europe (f/m/x)

Your mission:

The Business Development and Product Innovation Manager for Central Europe (f/m/x) will play a key role in driving business growth by identifying new opportunities, developing innovative packaging solutions, and establishing strong customer relationships within the corrugated packaging sector. This role combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution to meet market demands, enhance product offerings, and expand market share across the region.

(This position will report to the Sales Director Central Europe)

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the regional market, including potential clients, new end-uses and applications, and anticipating new emerging trends in the corrugated.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to expand the customer and product application base and increase revenue in the region.
• Establish strong relationships with key customers, including distributors, retailers, and end-users of corrugated packaging.
• Use market intelligence availabe materials and data, to drive focused business development projects.
• Collaborate with sales teams to align business development goals with regional sales targets.
• Develop a pipeline of leads, and ensure smooth and efficient handover to sales teams.
• Support sales teams in negotiating contracts, pricing, and terms with customers to maximize profitability while maintaining long-term relationships.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key accounts in the region.
• Drive business development projects in close collaboration with customers, enabling smooth and timely handover to sales teams for sales execution.
• Ensure alignment between customer needs and company offerings, creating tailored solutions for specific client requirements.

Product Innovation Management

• Lead the product innovation and product expert teams to innovate and develop new corrugated packaging solutions that meet market demand and customer needs.
• Stay ahead of packaging trends and technologies, incorporating new materials, design concepts, and sustainable practices into product offerings.
• Continuously review and assess the product portfolio to identify opportunities for improvement and differentiation in the marketplace.
• Support the marketing and sales teams with product launches, ensuring a strong go-to-market strategy for new innovations.
• Drive product innovation with a strong focus on sustainability, helping clients reduce their carbon footprint through environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
• Work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure that new products are feasible and can be scaled efficiently.
• Provide ongoing training and development to the sales team on new products and market trends.
• Develop network of external partners (eg. OEMs, raw material producers, etc), and enhance collaboration to deliver new innovations.
• Drive partnerships with univesities and packaging associations, focusing on new developments.

Your profile:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, Packaging Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5–8 years of experience in business development, sales, or product innovation in the corrugated packaging industry or a related field.
• Proven track record of successfully developing new business and launching innovative products.
• Strong understanding of corrugated packaging materials, processes, and market trends.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and eco-friendly packaging solutions is a plus.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to analyze markets and create long-term business strategies that foster growth.
• Business Acumen: Deep understanding of sales, pricing strategies, and cost structures in the corrugated packaging industry.
• Leadership & Team Collaboration: Experience leading effective team, and working with cross-functional teams, including sales, marketing, operations, and product development.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence and present effectively to senior management and clients. Being fluent in English and German as must have.
• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously, ensuring timely execution and alignment with regional goals.

Our offer:

• An inspiring position in our SALES department
• The opportunity to gain or improve first leadership experience trough direct management of a small team plus lateral leadership within the region
• Start: immediate start possible
• Duration: unlimited contract
• Extent: full-time              

Get in touch:

We strive to create a culture that inspires our people to reach their full potential. Going the extra mile – for colleagues and customers – our people drive our passion for performance and are the key ingredient of Mondi’s success. Be part of our future. Should you need further information, please contact Eva-Maria Redl via email.

Do you want to know more about Mondi? We are a global leader in packaging and paper, contributing to a better world through innovative solutions that are sustainable by design. Our global team of 22,000 people works across 100 production sites in more than 30 countries.

Our strength lies in our diversity. We are dedicated to creating a team that reflects the diversity of the world we operate in. We encourage applications from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, visible minorities, LGBTQI+ individuals, and people with disabilities. Even if you don't meet all the listed qualifications, we still want to hear from you. We believe in your potential and are committed to supporting you as you grow and learn at Mondi. If you need any accommodations during the recruitment process, please reach out to the contact person listed above.

Only CVs uploaded onto our online career platform will be taken into consideration. With your application, you will be redirected to our recruiting platform. After creating an account, you will receive an activation link. If you do not find the email in your inbox, please check your spam folder or add the address no-reply@mondigroup.com “safe list” or address book.

Awards: