PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (CHEESE & DAIRY PRODUCTS)

CENTRAL WI

Our client is a quality focused Dairy and Cheese Manufacturer based in WI and they are well known throughout North America. Due to recent growth, they are seeking an experienced R&D Department Manager with expertise developing in CHEESE and DAIRY Products. The NPD Manager will be responsible for development and execution of New Product Development projects and launches. Responsible for ensuring strategic, robust new product pipeline and effective and efficient processes to deliver the pipeline. They will collaboratively develop NPD strategies, cross-functionally leads technical execution of new products that meet TE and Quality standards. Partners with Project Management in overcoming project hurdles to define/meet timelines and Trademark Excellence standards. Delivers research and technology advancement projects to drive value for the Enterprise and our Operators. Manages the Pilot Plant facility to serve the Enterprise and continuous improvement thereof.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Dairy and Cheese New Product Development Team.

• Management of New Product and Cheese research projects

• Responsible for all aspects of product development including designing experiments, documentation, and recommendations and developing a robust commercial process with products

• Ensures the depth and scientific quality of experimental approach.

• Manages departmental administrative activities, budget, and human resource responsibilities.

• Collaborates with Project Management to continuously improve such processes.

• Develops key relationships with internal and external partners.

• Identifies, initiates, and leads partner & develop opportunities for R&D deliverables.

• Manage the pilot plant and ensures GMP compliant and safe operation of the Pilot Plant facility.

• Ensures Pilot Plant customer service needs are met.

• Ensures scheduling of trials to meet Enterprise priorities and other projects are achieved appropriately.

• Develops continuous improvement of the pilot plant through improved processes, equipment, operation, customer service and capabilities.

• Ensures proper budget planning and capital project execution for Pilot Plat and Technology Center area.

• Implements scientific core competencies in cheese technology, microbiology, and analytical chemistry.

• Implements new scientific methodologies for research, new product development, technical services, and quality assurance; tests, validates, and purchases research and pilot plant equipment.

• Ensures team keeps abreast of scientific literature and patents; communicates relevant scientific information to other groups

• Develops and implements key departmental initiatives for Cheese New Product Development

• Actively develops New Product Development and Research ideas/programs and leads Strategic Long-Range Planning within the confines of NPD with strong collaboration from cross-functional partners.

• Serves as a member of the R&D Leadership Team.

REQUIREMENTS

• MUST have a MS degree (MS degree preferred) - in Food Science, Dairy Science, Biochemistry, Food Nutrition, Biology or Similar Science.

• MUST have a minimum of 7-10 years of relevant DAIRY/CHEESE R&D New Product Development experience.

• Research experience in cheese technology, microbiology, and analytical chemistry is highly desired.

• Must have at least 5+ years of hands on managerial or supervisory experience, including managing a team Food Scientists in a professional R&D setting.

• Must be able to lead multidisciplinary, international technical teams with the focus on developing new products and implementing product and/or process changes.

• Must be able to translate knowledge and problems into concrete actions to meet internal and external customer demands.

• MUST have a strong business acumen and be a key business partner for the division

• MUST be able to determine and steer the business implications of change-management

• MUST have the skills to manage a professional R&D organization

• MUST be able to diagnoses and problem solve while manage complex multidisciplinary projects

• MUST have excellent communication skills, (verbal and written) and have experience interacting with customers

• MUST be able to relocate to upstate WI and travel occasionally

In return, they can offer a very competitive base salary, bonus opportunity, excellent benefits, relocation and ample opportunity for career advancement. For consideration, send resume to rob@foodemployment.com or call 815-520-8401 for more details.