Jill Sparkes
Denny
Summary
I bring a strong blend of technical expertise, project leadership and cross functional collaboration, developed through delivering complex packaging, POSM and product development projects. Skilled in managing suppliers, artwork processes and regulatory compliance, I combine analytical thinking with excellent attention to detail to ensure all packaging and product solutions meet brand, quality and legal standards. I work confidently across Marketing, Operations, Quality and Buying teams, communicating clearly and influencing effectively to move projects forward at pace. With a solid foundation in packaging materials, manufacturing processes and sustainability principles, I consistently deliver commercially viable, innovative solutions while maintaining high standards of operational readiness and visual excellence. Proactive, organised and solutions focused, I thrive in fast paced environments where problem solving, technical rigour and stakeholder engagement are essential.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work history
NPD Executive
The Glenmorangie Company
Edinburgh
2016.04 - 2026.01
Key Achievements & Responsibilities
- Led the end-to-end delivery of new product development (NPD), packaging and POSM projects, ensuring all launches met required timelines, budgets and quality standards
- Created and managed detailed technical development timelines, coordinating cross-functional teams across Marketing, Operations, Quality/Compliance and Supply Chain to ensure seamless project execution.
- Oversaw operational aspects of NPD projects, including risk reviews, complexity assessments and compliance checks, ensuring adherence to legal requirements and internal luxury brand standards.
- Led supplier management activities including tender preparation, supplier selection, and ongoing assessment and supported the introduction of innovative packaging solutions and new technologies.
- Supported artwork development and managed artwork approval processes, ensuring accuracy, brand consistency and production readiness.
- Provided technical input and documentation for production, quality, and ISO processes, ensuring product consistency and audit readiness.
Packaging Technician
Marks & Spencer
London
2015.03 - 2016.03
Key Achievements & Responsibilities
- Supported the delivery of packaging solutions across assigned product categories, ensuring all designs met M&S’s technical, sustainability and brand requirements.
- Supported artwork approvals across assigned product categories, ensuring all designs met legal and M&S’s requirements.
- Conducted packaging quality checks and technical assessments to ensure compliance with M&S policies, legal standards, and industry regulations.
- Collaborated with suppliers to improve packaging performance, reduce material usage, and enhance sustainability in line with M&S Plan A principles.
- Assisted in the development, trialling, and approval of new packaging formats, ensuring suitability for manufacturing, transit, and retail environments.
- Prepared and maintained technical documentation, specifications, and artwork approvals to ensure data accuracy and production readiness.
- Investigated packaging related issues, worked with suppliers and internal teams to identify root causes, and implemented corrective actions.
- Supported value engineering initiatives by reviewing materials, pack formats, and supply chain efficiencies to deliver commercial and environmental benefits.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Forensic Science
University of the West of England
Bristol, England 2003.09 - 2006.06
Affiliations
- Film
- Music
- Video Games
- Animals
- Craft
Earlier Career
Developed strong technical foundations in packaging across roles with Procter & Gamble and Nelsons, supporting R&D, product development and packaging optimisation projects. Gained hands‑on experience with packaging materials, testing, artwork coordination and supplier management, contributing to the delivery of high‑quality, compliant and commercially effective packaging solutions. Worked closely with cross‑functional teams including R&D, Marketing, Operations and Quality to support product launches, resolve technical issues and implement continuous improvement initiatives within fast‑paced FMCG environments.
Timeline
NPD Executive
The Glenmorangie Company
2016.04 - 2026.01
Packaging Technician
Marks & Spencer
2015.03 - 2016.03
Bachelor of Science - Forensic Science
University of the West of England
2003.09 - 2006.06