As Associate Director of Sustainability and Packaging Engineering, I lead the development and execution of sustainability strategies for Helen of Troy’s Beauty & Wellness division. I own the creation and implementation of a comprehensive sustainability roadmap aligned with corporate ESG goals, integrating sustainable practices across an extensive portfolio of brands, including Braun, Vicks, PUR, Honeywell, Hot Tools, Drybar, Curlsmith, and REVLON.In my dual role as Head of Packaging Engineering, I act as both a subject matter expert and strategic advisor. I collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement innovative packaging solutions that meet environmental and regulatory standards while maximizing functionality, consumer appeal, and cost efficiency. I drive continuous improvement in packaging structures and distribution, leading to enhanced operational efficiency and measurable cost savings throughout the packaging lifecycle, from concept to commercialization.

• Strategic Vision Execution: Created and delivered a strategic vision and 3-5 year plan for the packaging organization, focusing on sustainability and innovation.• Sustainability Roadmap: Owned and drove the Packaging Sustainability Roadmap and execution, including facilitation and tracking of sustainability data and metrics.• Innovation & Development: Worked with packaging suppliers to develop, prototype, and introduce new components, utilizing creative problem-solving to deliver state-of-the-art solutions.• Standardization Efforts: Developed and executed a harmonized approach to product packaging across sites, facilitating standardization and consolidation of packaging technology.

• Innovative Packaging Solutions: Developed cutting-edge packaging for core brands across global markets, aligning with sustainability goals and enhancing brand integrity.• Process Improvement: Pioneered sustainable packaging initiatives and provided strategic insights that drove continuous improvement and operational excellence.• Cross-Functional Influence: Influenced across functions and up the ladder to align packaging development with business objectives and customer needs.

• Operational Excellence: Led packaging innovation initiatives that reduced waste and improved margins, resulting in over $1 million in annual cost savings.• Process Optimization: Collaborated with external vendors to innovate and optimize processes, achieving significant improvements in shelf life and cost reduction.• Change Agent: Drove operational excellence and other improvement strategies, being recognized as a change agent within the organization.

• Expert Guidance: Provided specialized expertise in product and packaging development, leading to the creation of two patents and establishing a robust ecosystem of top-tier products.• Innovation & Collaboration: Built strong partnerships and fostered shared progress, playing a pivotal role in shaping technical advancements and bridging functional silos.

• Cost Savings & Efficiency: Led a team to achieve $3 million in annual cost savings through packaging optimization projects and supplier innovations.• Empowerment & Excellence: Fostered a culture of empowerment and efficiency, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and innovative solutions.• Best Practices Implementation: Monitored and incorporated industry best practices and innovation into packaging strategies and plans.

• Innovative Solutions: Facilitated innovation between Device and Packaging Development teams, leading to the launch of four Class II medical devices with award-winning packaging.• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborated with European and American distribution centers to solve distribution packaging challenges.• Regulatory Compliance: Ensured compliance with medical device regulations and standards, contributing to patient-focused innovations.

• Customer-Centric Solutions: Utilized customer feedback to optimize packaging sizes for new product launches, enhancing consumer satisfaction.• Sustainability Initiatives: Contributed to a 10% reduction in packaging waste as part of the global sustainability strategy, reflecting a relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation.