The AIP would like to congratulate our latest Diploma in Packaging Technology Graduate, Michael Seaman Dip.Pkg.Tech. MAIP Senior International Category Manager ANZ – Packaging from HelloFresh & Youfoodz. Internationally recognised as the premier qualification in the packaging industry the Diploma in Packaging Technology is a Level 5 PIABC, 51-credit foundation degree-level qualification that prepares students to take responsibility for packaging operations at any level through the supply chain and can also lead to higher level study.
Michael kindly shared with the AIP what he learnt during her studies…
Q1: What is your current role? What are your areas of responsibility?
I am the Senior International Category Manager ANZ – Packaging at HelloFresh & Youfoodz. I am responsible for the procurement of packaging articles for all packaging levels at Youfoodz and secondary packaging formats for Hello Fresh, including the design and development of new articles. I contribute to the validation processes in collaboration with operations, to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the formats, to perform both in the facilities & supply chains whilst also meeting customer needs. This allows for a role balance between commercial and technical topics, making my role diverse and enjoyable.
Q2: What does graduating from the Diploma in Packaging Technology mean to you?
I am pleased to have completed the Diploma in Packaging Technology, and thrilled to have received an overall distinction grade. The internationally recognised Degree enhances my abilities in the activities I undertake daily, and I have been able to apply learnings for the Degree in the day-to-day of my role. Additionally the added confidence in engaging either internally or externally on packaging topics cannot be undersold; the Degree has certainly enhanced my knowledge base and reinforced ‘what I thought I knew’.
Q3: How will you apply this knowledge moving forward?
The business in which I operate is fast paced, and constantly looking for initiatives that improve the product, customer experience, sustainability credentials and cost. Having an improved understanding of Packaging Technology allows me to move at a higher pace on projects, and applying the learnings to NPD briefs, operational reviews and material selection has provided enhanced outcomes for the business.
Q4: Do you have any advice on why other people should complete the Diploma in Packaging Technology?
If anyone is looking to improve their overall Packaging & Packaging Technology knowledge base, I would recommend the Degree as a great opportunity to learn. Packaging is an area that was once described to me as ‘no-one really values the technical performance of materials until something goes wrong and is subject to targeting for cost cutting’. Whilst I do not fully personally agree with this statement, the Diploma has given me additional knowledge to assist in educating others who may hold such viewpoints, and further the ability to articulate the ‘why’ investments can lead to efficiency and moreover strengthen a business’s view on the value of packaging to a brand owner.
Q5: So where to from here for your career?
My current role offers a plethora of diversity, from Primary pack performance and decoration through the secondary and tertiary formats. This coupled with a substantial innovation pipeline, and optimisation projects makes for a diverse and interesting path ahead. I am confident in applying the learnings from the Diploma on these projects, and moreover have already applied learnings to create projects. Whilst career progression occurs and can take you in varied directions, I believe that applying the learnings from this Diploma can well serve a diverse candidate base, from Packaging professionals to procurement and operational roles and further afield.
Q6: Will you consider applying to become a Certified Packaging Professional as your next professional development stage?
I will be considering the CPP as a further development step, however, I am also looking forward to applying some time in other areas before taking up studies again.
I think it is important for anyone considering further learning to consider the balance of work-life-study and apply energy to the right area at the right time.
Packaging is a passion pit for me, so there is a strong likelihood I will return to further study, and the encouragement and insights that are gained from student/tutor engagement during course work are invaluable. The AIP provides the very best tutors for their students, which is not just pragmatic and beneficial, but also a motivator.
The Diploma in Packaging Technology has been designed to take in to account the experiences of training through the pandemic and the results of research undertaken on the ideal learner journey. The Degree is comprised of short, bite-sized modules that you can study at a time and pace to suit you on a variety of devices.
WHY STUDY THE DIPLOMA IN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY?
Completion of the Diploma in Packaging Technology demonstrates your commitment to your career and to the industry.
Students who successfully complete the Diploma in Packaging Technology are equipping themselves for progression within the packaging industry to a position where they can assume responsibility for packaging in a company at any point in the supply chain.