The Senior R&D Manager is responsible for leading the development and optimization of new and existing food products, processes, and technologies. This role ensures that all projects align with company objectives for innovation, quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. The Senior R&D Manager collaborates cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain to deliver commercially viable solutions that meet consumer needs and business goals.  This individual is also responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring standard work, process improvements and mentoring / coaching food scientists.DIRECT REPORTSProduct Developer (2)DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Essential Job Functions)The duties and responsibilities of this position shall consist of, but not be limited to, the following:Product Development: (30%)Lead the creation, formulation, and testing of new food products from concept to commercialization.Optimize existing product lines for cost, quality, and sustainability.Project Management: (30%)Manage multiple R&D projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and deliverables are met.Maintain accurate documentation of formulations, processes, and specifications.Team Development: (30%)Mentor and develop R&D staff, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.Strategic planning as a member of the R&D leadership team (10%)Auditing and aligning on the key needs for the R&D team to deliver on the needs of the businessThe above areas include:Technical Leadership:Provide technical expertise in food science, ingredient functionality, and processing technologies.Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes.Cross-Functional Collaboration:Partner with Marketing to translate consumer insights into product concepts.Work with Operations and Supply Chain to ensure scalability and manufacturability.Compliance & Quality:Ensure all products meet food safety standards, regulatory requirements, and company quality guidelines.Support labeling, nutritional analysis, and allergen management
 PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an Team Member to be successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job the Team Member is regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The Team Member is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The Team Member must occasionally lift and/or more up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.WORK ENVIRONMENTThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a Team Member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The work environment is a plant/office setting with varying degrees of temperatures and noise levels. Exposure to manufacturing equipment movement and wet/slippery floors. However, the vast amount of work is conducted in a climate-controlled office. Travel may be required.