Position Overview :
The Manager R&D will be joining a private equity business with iconic brands, strong retail presence, and outstanding manufacturing capabilities.
The role will be based in the Toledo, Ohio manufacturing facility. Developing and maintaining a strong interaction with cross functional areas on a day-to-day basis is an important part of the position.
Responsibilities :
- Lead a team of food scientists and engineers
- Provide technical expertise throughout all phases of new product development (concept through commercialization)
- Provide expertise supporting technical issues in the manufacturing plant
- Provide leadership, coaching and mentoring for the technical team
- Ensure the accuracy of the technical data related to bakery products (PLM system, regulatory compliance, formulas, artwork)
- Work with Marketing to establish innovation strategy
- Partner with Operations, Planning, QA, and Procurement for commercial execution against all new products
- Recommend and implement product quality improvements based on quantitative insights
- Investigate and implement cost reduction initiatives
- Cross functional collaboration with Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, Operations
- Generate new product ideas and recipes, and review and approve new ideas
Qualifications :
- 8+ years of CPG / food R&D experience. Experience in baking categories strongly preferred :
- Understanding of flours and grains
- Understanding of grain-based products, chemical leavening, yeast leavening, ingredient functionality
- Understanding of carbohydrate chemistry and fat / oil chemistry
- Experience leading highly skilled technical teams (scientists and engineers)
- Experience using TraceGains or other Product Lifecycle Management system
- Experience using Genesis or other nutrition labeling software
- Bachelors Degree in Food Science or Engineering
- Preferred : Masters Degree in Food Science, Engineering, or Business
Personal Characteristics :
Strong leadership presence, communication skills, and ability to influence
Great attitude and drive : Ability to roll up sleeves and get things done
Ability to thrive in and handle ambiguity & fast paced environment
Track record of successful people development
Passion for food and innovation
5 days ago