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Kousik Saha
Manager - Head Packaging Development Near East Region at NIVEA INDIA(Beiersdorf AG) ; P&G, PepsiCo Alumni
Professional Background
Kousik Saha is a dynamic professional with over 19 years of exceptional experience in the field of packaging innovation and technology. He is recognized as a serial innovator, adept at transforming concepts into successful market-ready products. His impressive track record includes several innovations that have gained international accolades, underscoring his ability to push the boundaries of packaging solutions.
As a global packaging expert, Kousik has honed his craft across multiple industries, working with multicultural teams and navigating complex, multifunctional areas. His expertise spans across upstream packaging innovations, packaging procurement, consumer research, and supply chain innovation. He has developed a deep understanding of various technology platforms, including injection molding, extrusion blow molding, ISBM PET bottles, glass, flexible packaging, and paper and paperboard solutions. This breadth of knowledge makes him a pivotal asset in any organization looking to enhance its packaging processes.
In his most recent role as Manager - Head Packaging Development Near East Region at NIVEA INDIA, Kousik has showcased his leadership by overseeing a diverse team. He has a proven ability to lead both small and large teams, directly managing up to ten scientists while collaborating with key quality assurance and engineering teams to install and qualify new packaging departments from the ground up. His leadership experience is marked by success in executing complex projects that require a fine balance of technical expertise and team collaboration.
Kousik's international experience in research and development (R&D) across emerging markets, including China, Southeast Asia, India, the Middle East, and Africa, has equipped him with valuable insights into market trends and consumer behaviors. His strong background in business models and R&D funding strategies allows him to effectively manage globally dispersed organizations with diverse skill sets. He has a wealth of knowledge gained through his work assignments with industry giants like Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, and currently Beiersdorf AG, enriching his understanding of different business units ranging from oral care and skin care to food and beverages.
Education and Achievements
Kousik Saha studied Packaging Technology at the prestigious Indian Institute of Packaging, Mumbai, where he acquired a solid foundation in this specialized field. His formal education complements his hands-on experience, contributing to his comprehensive understanding of packaging systems.
Throughout his career, Kousik has taken on significant roles in well-known organizations. Notably, he served as the Associate Director-Head Packaging Commercialization at PepsiCo, where his leadership in developing innovative packaging solutions bolstered the company's product offerings. Prior to that, he was a Senior Scientist at Procter & Gamble, where he played a crucial role in packaging development initiatives that enhanced product aesthetics and functionality.
His previous experiences include serving as the Head of Packaging Development at Panacea Biotec Ltd, an Executive in Packaging Development at Shalina Laboratories, and holding various roles that laid the groundwork for his extensive career in packaging.
Achievements
Kousik's work has been recognized with several international awards, highlighting his contributions to packaging innovation. His ability to blend technical skill with creative problem solving has not only brought about successful product innovations but has also established a notable presence in global packaging networks. He possesses mastery in areas such as design innovation, global supplier selection, and qualification of packaging machinery for new projects. This expertise includes sterile operations for injectables and biologicals, as well as aseptic filling lines for beverages.
His specialties encompass a wide range of areas, such as global innovation management, comprehensive packaging expertise in cosmetics, FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods), food and beverages, as well as pharmaceuticals and biologicals. Kousik’s ability to strategically connect and develop programs with universities and technology partners highlights his commitment to fostering innovation through collaboration.
In addition to his invaluable industry contributions, Kousik continually leverages lessons learned from his extensive work experiences to influence current projects positively. He focuses on comprehensive total cost management and strategic alignment of development programs to ensure maximum efficacy in every initiative.
In conclusion, Kousik Saha stands as a leading authority in the packaging industry, blending deep technical knowledge with innovative leadership. With a resounding commitment to excellence and a proven ability to deliver groundbreaking packaging solutions, Kousik is poised to continue making significant contributions in the field of packaging technology for years to come.