Sabert Corporation

Role Description The CFI Director - Pulp & Paper leads Sabert's pulp and paper technical innovation agenda, developing new platforms and products, advancing barrier/coating technologies, and improving performance, sustainability, and manufacturability of molded fiber and paper solutions. The role owns the Pulp & Paper technical portfolio from concept to commercialization through Sabert's stage-gate governance, partnering cross-functionally to deliver growth and margin expansion while meeting food contact, performance, and environmental standards. - Define and execute Sabert's pulp and paper innovation strategy aligned with growth and sustainability goals - Lead development of new molded fiber and paperboard solutions, including high-heat, sealable, and barrier-enhanced technologies - Drive end-to-end product development from concept through pilot and full-scale commercialization using stage-gate processes - Advance barrier coatings, laminations, and material technologies to improve performance and differentiation - Oversee R&D labs, pilot trials, and testing standards (TAPPI, ASTM, food-contact compliance) - Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Commercial, Marketing, and Procurement to bring innovations to market - Support manufacturing scale-up and define critical process parameters for successful production - Lead sustainability initiatives including fiber sourcing (FSC/PEFC), recyclability, composability, and lifecycle assessments - Build and develop a high-performing technical team while managing budgets, capital projects, and innovation pipelines Qualifications - BS or equivalent degree in Paper Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field - 10-15+ years in pulp/paper or molded fiber packaging R&D with proven commercialization record - Expertise in forming processes, barrier coatings/laminations, and converting - Strong command of material testing (TAPPI/ASTM), food-contact compliance, and reliability engineering - Demonstrated leadership in stage-gate, portfolio management, and cross-functional program delivery - Experience with sustainability frameworks (FSC/PEFC, recyclability/composability claims, LCA) - Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Requirements - Experience in sustainable packaging or related industries - Background in supply chain, operations, or manufacturing processes - Familiarity with Lean or continuous improvement methodologies Skills & Competencies - Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Excellent communication and influencing abilities across all organizational levels - Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment - Passion for sustainability and innovation in packaging solutions