Market Development Associate

Product Coordinator

Location: Appleton, WI

Job Type: Full-Time

About Flair Packaging

Flair Packaging is a privately held, rapidly growing leader in the flexible packaging industry. We partner with leading brands across food, beverage, pet food, and consumer products, delivering innovative packaging solutions that help our customers succeed.

At Flair, we believe exceptional product leaders are developed through hands-on experience, mentorship, and continuous learning. We are seeking motivated individuals who are interested in building a career in product management, category development, and commercial strategy within the packaging industry.

Position Summary

The Market Development Associate is an entry-level product management and commercial development role designed to prepare high-potential individuals for future leadership opportunities within product management and category development.

Through a structured 6–9-month training program, you will gain exposure to product strategy, market analysis, customer needs, supplier relationships, and business development activities. Working closely with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Procurement, you will help support product growth initiatives while developing a deep understanding of the flexible packaging industry.

This position requires up to 25% travel for customer visits, supplier meetings, trade shows, and training opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Product & Market Development

• Assist in managing and supporting assigned product categories.
• Develop an understanding of product specifications, applications, market positioning, and competitive advantages.
• Support product launches, category growth initiatives, and commercialization activities.
• Monitor product performance and identify opportunities for growth and improvement.

Market Research & Competitive Intelligence

• Research industry trends, emerging technologies, customer needs, and competitive activity.
• Analyze market data and identify new product and business opportunities.
• Assist in developing product recommendations and growth strategies.

Customer & Supplier Engagement

• Participate in customer meetings to understand packaging requirements and market needs.
• Collaborate with various departments to gather product information, technical data, and market insights.
• Support customer presentations, product evaluations, and sample requests.

Sales & Commercial Support

• Work alongside the sales team to support product-focused opportunities.
• Assist with product quotes, pricing analysis, and customer proposals.
• Attend sales meetings, trade shows, and industry events.
• Help identify and qualify new business opportunities within targeted markets.

Learning & Professional Development

• Participate in structured training on product management, sales fundamentals, flexible packaging applications, and CRM systems.
• Develop expertise in packaging materials, manufacturing processes, sustainability initiatives, and market trends.
• Gain exposure to cross-functional business operations including sales, customer service, purchasing, and operations.

Performance & Accountability

• Support category growth objectives and commercial initiatives.
• Track and report on key product and market performance metrics.
• Contribute to strategic projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree preferred in: Packaging Science, Food Science, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Business, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, Communications, or related field.
• Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

Experience

• 0–2 years of professional experience.
• Internship, product management, marketing, customer service, or sales experience is a plus.
• Strong interest in product management, category development, marketing, or commercial leadership.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Highly motivated, curious, and eager to learn.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook).

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

Why Join Flair Packaging?

Career Growth

• Structured training and professional development program.
• Clear advancement path into Product Management, Category Management, Marketing, or Commercial Leadership roles.
• Exposure to senior leadership, customers, and supplier partners.

Professional Development

• Ongoing mentorship and coaching.
• Hands-on experience in a growing industry.
• Opportunity to influence product strategy and business growth.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company participation.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development and industry networking opportunities.

How to Apply

If you are driven, analytical, and excited about building a career in product management and packaging innovation, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in joining Flair Packaging and pursuing a career in product management.