Artwork Manager
Description
We are looking for a Private Brands Artwork Manager who is passionate about packaging design and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment!
Do you have experience managing packaging artwork in a retail or consumer goods setting?
Do you have a passion for brand storytelling and regulatory compliance?
Why not join us?
Position: Private Brands Artwork Manager – 1 Year Contract (Full Time)
Job Overview:
The Private Brands Artwork Manager plays a critical role in the development and execution of packaging artwork for Longo’s Private Brand products. This role coordinates with third-party design and regulatory agencies, internal stakeholders, and vendors to ensure timely, accurate, and brand-compliant packaging. The ideal candidate has a strong background in packaging design, project management, and regulatory compliance, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for brand storytelling.
Accountabilities:
Artwork & Packaging Coordination
- Manage end-to-end packaging artwork development for Private Brand products.
- Collect and vet product specifications from vendors to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Review and/or develop die lines and artwork creation with third-party agencies.
- Approve proofs and first production case samples, ensuring alignment with brand standards and regulatory requirements.
- Generate and verify UPCs as vector files for packaging artwork.
- Ensure artwork inputs are accurate, complete, and delivered on time.
- Troubleshoot artwork issues and ensure files are print-ready.
Design & Brand Execution
- Ensure all packaging aligns with Longo’s Private Brand strategy and visual identity.
- Develop digital mock-ups for marketing and internal use when physical samples are unavailable.
- Support the creation of seasonal and promotional packaging (e.g., gift cards, gift tags).
- Provide creative direction for photoshoots and packaging imagery.
- Approve first production product samples to ensure they match released and approved artwork.
- Explore brand design for new private brand categories against retail/industry benchmarks.
- Review packaging formats and provide PDS in cm² to incorporate FOP icons.
Regulatory & Compliance
- Collaborate with QA and regulatory teams to ensure artwork meets all compliance standards.
- Manage last-minute label modifications due to ingredient or regulatory changes.
- Maintain accurate documentation and version control of all artwork files.
- Ensure packaging adheres to CFIA/FDA standards and bilingual labeling requirements.
Project Management
- Maintain project timelines, status updates, and stakeholder communications.
- Lead weekly status meetings with internal teams and external partners.
- Approve and release final artwork for production.
- Support internal graphic design needs for presentations and events.
- Align artwork development with product launch schedules.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
- Explore new packaging formats and materials to reduce costs and improve sustainability.
- Benchmark against industry trends to enhance packaging design and functionality.
- Identify and implement process improvements to streamline artwork development.
- Recommend packaging enhancements that elevate brand presence and guest experience.
Vendor & Print Production Liaison
- Collaborate directly with print vendors to ensure artwork specifications meet production requirements.
- Troubleshoot print issues and ensure colour accuracy and material compatibility.
- Ensure consistent packaging quality and minimize print errors.
Digital Asset Management
- Maintain a centralized library of packaging assets, die lines, and final artwork files.
- Ensure version control and accessibility for internal and external stakeholders.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Product Development, Regulatory, and Category teams to align timelines and deliverables.
- Participate in cross-functional meetings to provide updates and resolve artwork-related issues.
- Assist with guest inquiries regarding product ingredients, packaging, and nutritional information.
- Coordinate artwork development with CK/QA team using SNI-vetted regulatory review process.
Quality Assurance Support
- Conduct pre-press checks and final reviews to ensure artwork accuracy before print.
- Support QA in identifying and correcting packaging-related issues post-launch.
Knowledge, Skills & Competencies:
- Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Design, Graphic Design, or equivalent experience.
- 5–8 years of packaging experience in retail or CPG, with 3+ years in a leadership role.
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop).
- Strong knowledge of food and CPG packaging regulations (CFIA/FDA).
- Excellent project management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
Working Conditions:
Participation in meetings and ability to manage multiple projects and changing priorities.
Longo’s is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities throughout the recruitment process and, upon request, will work with qualified job applicants to provide suitable accommodation in a manner that takes into account the applicant’s accessibility needs due to disability.
If you require accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Coordinator at:
Email: [email protected]