All posting locations: Glenview, Illinois, United States of America
Job Function: 10 - R&D
Date Published: 26-Sep-2023
Ref #: R-74404
Description & Requirements
Are you looking for a unique and creative culinary innovation role that will transform the future of R & D innovation and accelerate Kraft Heinz growth ambitions? Our Culinary team shapes and influences food-facing innovations by combining a creative approach and our technical expertise to drive consumer and product opportunities. We pride ourselves on being the expert culinary connection to food and cooking within the marketplace. We are looking for a “consumer-obsessed” culinary professional to join our team – someone who is creative- strategic- independent- collaborative and who can execute with high attention to detail and effective communication.
This is a hands-on R&D innovation role- providing support to our new Innovation Lab where we identify new and exciting opportunities for KHC. This individual will work closely with our internal Marketing- Insights- and various R & D Innovation and Functional teams (as well as external partners) to explore- develop and test new product- ingredient- flavor and consumer usage opportunities. Using Agile methodology- this individual will be an active participant in the process of understanding opportunity areas- prioritizing dig spaces- developing minimal viable products (MVP) and connecting with consumers for product-fit learning.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Demonstrates understanding of culinary basics: the principles of cooking techniques- product characteristics- safe food handling techniques- food & nutrition- and ideation. Understands how to apply consumer food insights- sensory attributes- and culinary principles into product development.
Demonstrates basic understanding of functional ingredients and their application within developed formulations or as needed for Culinary Concept Development. Utilizes culinary techniques to develop minimal viable products (MVP) to test with consumers for learning and validation.
Develops- applies- and guides others in culinary research approaches to translate food trends into actionable strategic opportunity areas and innovation concepts that are focused on a business target.
Plans- develops- executes and participates in culinary projects such as competitive landscape reviews- immersions- trend presentations- concept ideation and product cuttings with the guidance of the Innovation Lab Lead.
Exemplifies strong creative skills and collaboration with cross-functional partners.
Demonstrates strategic thinking- clear communication skills- consistent attention to detail- and proactive ownership across all assigned work.
Works well in a team environment- able to balance multiple and/or shifting priorities- and flexes to provide support to colleagues as needed.
Expected Experience & Required Skills
Experience and/or desire to learn and apply Agile ways of working and design thinking
Growth mindset - modeling lifelong curiosity and learning
Strong cross-functional internal and external collaboration approach- accompanied by individual ownership & accountability
Openness to think and do things differently
Excellent communication (written & verbal)- project management and influencing skills
Seasoned experience in the culinary field with demonstrable culinary expertise
Seasoned experience corporate setting with R & D/food manufacturing preferred
Bachelor’s degree in related fields preferred
Work Environment & Schedule
This is a Hybrid role with 3 days a week in the local office- with limited travel or visits to external locations; offices are open workspaces. Additionally- this role requires working a salaried- exempt schedule to best execute against customer and internal expectations
Physical demands include but not limited to
Willingness to drive and/or travel as needed
Operate a computer and view screens
About Us
Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun and quality to every meal table we touch. We’re on a mission to disrupt not only our own business, but the global food industry. A consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress as we drive innovation across every part of our company.
Around the world, our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility and endless curiosity. We also believe in being good humans, who are working to improve our company, communities, and planet. We’re proud of where we’ve been – and even more thrilled about where we’re headed – as we nourish the world and lead the future of food.
Why Us
We grow our people to grow our business. We champion great people who bring ambition, curiosity, and high performance to the table as the guardians of our beloved and nostalgic brands. Good isn't good enough. We choose greatness every day by challenging the ordinary and making bold decisions. All while celebrating our wins - and our failures – as we work together to lead the future of food.
Challenging the status quo takes talent. We invest in your purpose and potential by developing skills and nurturing strengths that leave a legacy on our business and a lasting impact on your career. Because great people make great companies, and we’re growing something great here at Kraft Heinz.
Office Collaboration & Hybrid Work Environment
We believe our office environment fuels our collaboration, connection & community as an organization and allows our employees to grow toward greatness. We also believe providing a more flexible and agile model is essential in today’s workplace. A majority of our office-based employees will be able to work remotely for up to two days each week. Additionally, employees who are subject to this hybrid model will be eligible to work from anywhere for up to six weeks in a rolling 12-month period (in maximum two-week increments and according to benefits and tax guidelines). Some jobs may be required to be performed fully in office depending on the role’s responsibilities and requirements.
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NATAI@kraftheinz.com.