About the Role
Job Description
Manager, R&D – Product Development
This is a Research and Development Manager role in the Meals & Kits Technical Platform, leading Innovation for the Lunchables category. The role is responsible for delivery of business unit NSV, CMA, and EBITDA through leadership of activities for Innovation and strategic initiatives. This individual interfaces extensively with key stakeholders of all levels of leadership and across multiple functions including R&D, Quality, Marketing, Sales, Finance, and all functions within Supply Chain team (Procurement, Manufacturing and Customer Service & Logistics). Additionally, this role will be responsible for providing technical leadership across all phases of projects. A growth mindset is essential for this role.
Responsibilities:
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Directly lead a team of 4 product developers
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Deliver the strategic plans for the category across Growth
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Participate in building the Consumer Learning Plans for the category
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Assist in scoping and facilitating business opportunities
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Participate in Stage Gate meetings, providing R&D input
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Work directly with the business units, cross-functional teams, plants, and suppliers as the R&D category manager to manage projects and direct developers
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Manage the resources and budget for the category
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Collaborate with teams to understand and ensure product quality and food safety requirements are defined and delivered through the completion of raw material, finished product and quality specifications that deliver consistent, high-quality products
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s Degree (Masters is a plus) – Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering
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6+ years of experience in the food industry preferred
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Demonstrated people leadership and strong ability to build effective teams
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Growth mindset
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Challenge self and others to see and apply new insights
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Strong experience in commercialization
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Understanding of ingredient interactions/functionality
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Self-motivated problem solver and the drive to deliver objectives in a complex, fast-paced environment
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Excellent influencing skills
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Willingness to travel 20% pending business needs. Travel could include (but not limited to): within United States and Canada to internal plants, co-manufacturers, and suppliers.
Kraft Heinz is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for the MBA opportunities, regardless of race, religion, faith, creed, age, ethnicity, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability. Job seekers with disabilities who require accommodation during the recruitment process or would like more details about accessibility should contact: accessibility@kraftheinzcompany.com.
Location(s)
Glenview R&D Center
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 NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.
About Us
Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. Our emerging and iconic food and beverage brands deliver the best taste, fun, and quality to every table we touch. Worldwide.
We’re on a mission to disrupt not only our own business, but the global food industry. Consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress. As we drive innovation company-wide.
Our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility and endless curiosity. We believe in being good humans — 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.
