Position Summary
The Senior APS is responsible for managing the artwork portfolio within their BU/BG, acting as a talent catalyst and mentor for team members. This role requires strong stakeholder management (internal and external), interfacing with functional heads, BG leaders, and external vendors. The individual will drive process improvements, business changes, and capability building while ensuring on-time, high-quality delivery of artwork across multiple projects and channels.
Key focus areas include:
- Design and mechanical artwork development
- AI/automation and color management
- Process simplification and operational excellence
- Packaging artwork delivery from design through commercially reproducible mechanical artwork
Key Responsibilities
Artwork & Project Management
- Own the artwork process and ensure projects are delivered on time and in full (OTIF).
- Manage multiple projects, including innovations, promotions, SKU rationalization, complexity reduction, range standardization, and cost-saving initiatives.
- Route, create, and manage projects in the BLUE online artwork management system.
- Act as a gatekeeper for project timelines and communicate feasibility and risks clearly.
Stakeholder Management & Collaboration
- Collaborate with Marketing, R&D, Supply Chain, Quality, eCommerce, and dCommerce teams.
- Work closely with internal/external agencies and print vendors to ensure designs are technically printable, cost-efficient, and brand-consistent.
- Present insights and updates in leadership meetings using data & analytics to influence decision-making.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure master design files follow toolbox specifications and match print requirements.
- Monitor agencies to maintain approved rate cards and service level agreements (SLAs).
- Drive improvements in quality, efficiency, and compliance within your portfolio.
Mentoring & Capability Building
- Coach APS counterparts and newcomers.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives and upskill team members in artwork management processes.
Challenges
- Managing multiple projects with tight timelines and cross-functional dependencies.
- Navigating dynamic rules, regulations, and online procedures while holding stakeholders accountable.
- Driving process improvement while maintaining compliance and high-quality standards.
Scope
- Responsible for multiple brands/categories across markets.
- Coordinates with multiple external vendors across time zones.
- Acts as advisor, influencer, and negotiator with internal/external stakeholders.
- Supports the Artwork Production Manager in overseeing team tasks and business activities.
Skills & Competencies
Key Competencies
- Strong communication (verbal & written)
- Intercultural and collaborative people skills
- Proactive and accountable
- Multi-tasking with strong attention to detail
- Influencing and negotiating
- Business partner mindset
- Agility and ability to embrace change
- Consumer & customer focus
- Passion for high performance
Professional / Technical Skills
- 35 years experience in pack artwork management, graphic design, print production, pre-press, digital marketing, R&D, or similar FMCG roles
- Proficiency in MS Office; basic knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Adobe Creator
- Project management, budgeting, scheduling, and data analysis
General Skills
- Creative thinking and clear expression of concepts
- Fluent English (plus any market-specific languages)
- Can-do, positive mindset
- Embracing diversity and inclusion
