ALEXANDRA S NOWAK
Los Angeles
Summary
Extensive experience in packaging project management, cross-functional leadership, and process optimization within the cosmetics industry enables excellence in fast-paced, demanding environments. Over 10 years of proven success in driving strategic decisions and delivering quantifiable results demonstrates a strong ability to lead diverse teams toward successful project outcomes. Strong communication and negotiation skills, combined with a results-oriented approach, foster alignment among stakeholders and significantly contribute to overall business success. A passion for sustainable packaging solutions and demonstrated leadership experience will add significant value to any organization.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Manager Packaging Development Engineer
E.l.f. Cosmetics
06.2025 - Current
- Led cross-functional teams to implement process improvements enhancing operational efficiency.
- Mentored junior manager as direct report, fostering professional development and ensuring knowledge transfer within the team.
- Streamlined project management processes, reducing completion time while maintaining quality standards.
- Overseeing packaging development across full product portfolio.
- Driving cost optimization and sourcing components while partnering closely with Product Development, Operations, and Marketing.
Senior Manager Packaging Engineering
Urban Decay
06.2021 - 06.2025
- Led and executed high-impact packaging initiatives, driving cost optimization, sustainability, quality, and speed-to-market across multiple new product launches.
- Delivered full project lifecycle management—from concept through distribution—for all launches, meeting ambitious goals including a 20% packaging weight reduction and increased use of recyclable materials.
- Recognized company-wide as a Beauty Shaker Finalist in the “Excellence in Execution” category (among hundreds of entries) for the innovative Face Bond Dropper.
- Developed and implemented standardized project management manuals, aligning workflows between operations and external manufacturers. These improvements: reduced time-to-market approval by 2 weeks, improved cross functional collaboration and minimized workload through clearly defined roles.
- Facilitated global alignment by leading communications and negotiations across cross-functional teams and international zones, including Asia, EU, and South America.
- Acted as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for key strategic suppliers, conducting annual business reviews, managing performance, and training internal teams on packaging technologies such as injection molding and tubes.
Packaging Manager
L'Oréal
01.2017 - 06.2021
- Managed packaging development for face category across Maybelline, L’Oréal Paris, IT cosmetics, and Lancome brands, ensuring design feasibility, technical performance, and supply chain readiness.
- Successfully led new mold development from concept through approval and delivery, achieving production volumes exceeding 3 million units in year one.
- Oversaw global product transfers and launches for 100+ SKUs, ensuring technical alignment and on time execution.
- Executed major sustainability initiatives, such replacement of 135 tons of virgin glass with PCR across multiple L'Oreal brands and conversion of 150 tons of plastic to PCR with added 10% lightweighting.
- Reviewed and approved all component drawings, assembly instructions, and packaging BOMs; oversaw testing protocols (components, FG testing, compatibility) and analyzed results to ensure quality standards.
Packaging R&D Innovation CO-OP
PepsiCo
07.2016 - 01.2017
- Fully owned creation of specifications, including completion of QA validation tests across multiple brands.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Supported plant line trials for qualification of new package designs and cost saving initiatives
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
Packaging engineer Intern
Batallure Beauty
10.2015 - 01.2016
- Performed FG testing to ensure that quality meets specification for LUXE brands like: Derek Lam, Amaze Express perfume, Christian Louboutin Rouge
- Wrote packaging instructions for handling product on a line by contract manufacturing site
- Supported Line Trial to ensure quality of the product meets the acceptable range
Education
B.S - Packaging Engineering
Rutgers University
New Brunswick, NJ12.2017
Equivalent to Bachelor - Project Management
International Marketing Institute
12.2009
Skills
- Experienced with MS Office tools
- Strong cross-team communication
- Proficient in SolidWorks and SAP
- Proactive self-starter
- Effective troubleshooting skills
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Skilled in Microsoft Project and Smart Sheet
- Workflow improvement
Accomplishments
- Sustainability Initiative Success: Replaced 135 tons of glass with PCR glass. Validated limeX to replace 40% of virsin plastic.
- Optimized Supply Chain by reducing production lead time by 20%.
- High Volume Production: Managed over 3MM unit new launch production.
- Cost Efficiency Improvement: Achieved 15% cost savings in packaging on over 1MM volume launch
Certification
- General AI for all - Jan 2025
- Successful Self-Management (SSM) - Nov 2024
- Presentation skills: Engaging Your Audience – Sep 2024
- Own the Room: Powerfully Concise & Better Questions – Aug 2024
- Story Selling 1.0 with Body Talk – Aug 2024
- Packaging Mold Design – June 2024
Timeline
Senior Manager Packaging Development Engineer
E.l.f. Cosmetics
06.2025 - Current
Senior Manager Packaging Engineering
Urban Decay
06.2021 - 06.2025
Packaging Manager
L'Oréal
01.2017 - 06.2021
Packaging R&D Innovation CO-OP
PepsiCo
07.2016 - 01.2017
Packaging engineer Intern
Batallure Beauty
10.2015 - 01.2016
B.S - Packaging Engineering
Rutgers University
Equivalent to Bachelor - Project Management
International Marketing Institute
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