Director of R&D - Food Manufacturer | Chicago, IL

Director R&D Food Manufacturer

Our client is a premier food manufacturer specializing in branded baking products, including flour, cornmeal, baking mixes, and other pantry essentials. Serving both retail and foodservice markets throughout North America, the company is dedicated to providing consumers with trusted brands built on quality and tradition.

Job Description

Develop and lead the R&D strategy aligned with company goals and market trends. Provide technical expertise throughout all phases of new product development (concept through commercialization). Lead ideation, formulation, testing, and scale-up of new items. Ensure all products comply with USDA, FDA, and other regulatory standards. Monitor food trends, consumer insights, and competitive products to identify innovation opportunities. Drive continuous improvement in product performance, packaging, and shelf stability. Oversee bench-top development through pilot plant testing and full-scale production. Partner with Manufacturing to improve existing formulations, reduce costs, and enhance processing methods without compromising quality. Provide leadership, coaching, and mentoring for the technical team. Work with Marketing to establish innovation strategy and partner with operations for commercial execution against all new products. Investigate and implement cost reduction initiatives. Cross-functional collaboration with Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, Operations. Perform annual performance appraisals for all direct reports and develop key personnel through coaching, training, and organizational development. Supervises, coaches, and develops direct reports to help them achieve department goals. Develop and control the capital and operating budget for the R&D department. Performs all other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as assigned. Expected travel to manufacturing locations on a regular basis.

The Successful Applicant

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Food Engineering, or a related field. 8+ years of R&D experience in the food manufacturing industry, with a strong emphasis on Italian cuisine (sauces, pastas, ready meals, etc.). Proven experience taking products from concept through commercialization in a USDA / FDA-regulated environment. Strong understanding of ingredient functionality, thermal processing, and food safety protocols. Culinary training or deep familiarity with regional Italian cooking techniques. Experience with frozen, shelf-stable, and refrigerated product lines. Experience with co-manufacturing partners and internal manufacturing environments. Experience leading highly skilled technical teams (scientists and engineers). Sponsorship not provided.

What's on Offer

Compensation up to $180,000. 20% Bonus. 3 weeks of PTO. Full Health Benefits. 401 match up to 6%.