More than ever, the packaging industry is focused on sales growth and so packaging sales jobs are increasing. Companies are looking to hire experienced packaging sales people who have the required
knowledge of the design and specification-led sale, including knowledge of the production line and manufacturing processes as well as cost vs. environmental issues such as disposability and the carbon footprint associated with delivery. Packaging companies are also seeking out salespeople who have key client relationships with the end users, especially because of the link between the design and branding of the products.
Growth in packaging sales
- The ready meal, thermoformed plastic market and closures (eg. lids, caps and screw top bottle tops)
- Industrial transit packaging for specialist markets such as aerospace, military, defence, automotive, OEMs
Talent attraction and retention
- Experience of selling specific packaging types to the correct routes to market
- Experience of dealing with specific customers
- Understanding of the technology they are selling and the technical issues
- Understanding of up-to-date legislation surrounding the products
- Demonstrable sales figures
- Packaging employers tend to want to employ candidates who can already do the job because there is a lot of technical knowledge required in addition to sales skills.
Advice for candidates in packaging sales job
- Keep in touch with our consultants for advice on where the market is moving and which segments pay more
- If possible seek to specialise in a lucrative product or route to market
- Plan your career - make moves that give you the experience you need to get where you want to be
- Set expectations and timescales for progression with your employer at the start of your employment and then stick at it. Most job moves are sideways movements in responsibility sometimes for a slight pay increase, sometimes for parity. The key to progression is to get it where you are currently working before you make the next move
Looking ahead
Submit your CV today, browse our technical sales jobs or for information about current sales vacancies in the packaging industry, contact Daniel Corcoran at Michael Page Sales.