ELP, Quality

About the Role

Sonoco’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is a selective program for professionals starting their career with Sonoco. Offering full-time positions that extend beyond a traditional first job, we give associates hands-on experience, leadership development, coaching, and opportunities to connect with business leaders. The program is designed to help you develop leadership skills, gain technical knowledge, establish strong business skills, and understand Sonoco’s culture and processes. Throughout the program, you can expect to gain a better understanding of your leadership style and contribute to Sonoco through valuable project work.

Core Development Areas

• Operational Development: Technical training needed to excel in your role.
• Personal Development: Increasing self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and conflict management skills.
• Leadership Development: Learning how to communicate vision, increase engagement, effectively manage change, and establish trust through results and relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to Sonoco through valuable project work.
• Gain a better understanding of your leadership style.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor or Master’s degree (obtained by December 2026 or May 2027).
• Previous internship experience (preferably in Manufacturing or a functional area).
• Proven leadership experience.
• Desire to work in a Manufacturing environment.
• Technical aptitude.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong ethics.
• Passion for innovation.
• Willingness to go the extra mile.

Location & Relocation

• The ELP is the start of a career at Sonoco, which can include relocation (immediately or in the future).
• ELP associates are expected to be open to the possibility of relocation.
• Candidates will be matched based on their unique experiences and specific location needs.
• Emerging Leader Program candidates must remain flexible with their location preferences.

Compensation

• Business Non-Technical Degrees: Annual base salary range of $68,000 - $71,000.
• Technical/Engineering Degrees: Annual base salary range of $77,000 - $85,000.

Benefits (for U.S. employees; specific benefits may vary by location or employment type)

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Wellbeing tools and resources, including an Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.