Job Description

Associate Director of R&D

80-Year-old Food Product Manufacturer in Pennsylvania presents a rewarding opportunity for the qualified professional. The successful candidate will lead the product development team to innovate, develop and envision products. The Associate Director plays a key role in many aspects of the product development yet the primary responsibility is to be an effective leader of those throughout the department. This self-driven individual must be detail oriented, technically competent and capable of operating in cross-functional manufacturing environments.

Primary Duties:

• Maintain a relevant product suite to support strategic growth objectives
• Execute multiple simultaneous projects
• Build and maintain internal capabilities for technical leadership
• Implement efficient and effective policies and practices
• Support execution of product and manufacturing portfolio strategy
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives
• Manages and mentors associate or product developer level individuals to assist them with projects and further develop them in their role

Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Food Science or similar technical degree. Advanced Degree highly preferred
• Minimum of 8 years of food industry experience
• 8+ years of experience in product development
• Must possess a deep knowledge of ingredient formulation and product development
• Strong business acumen
• Self-motivated, performance driven and ability to excel as a leader
• Drives accountability for self, team and cross functional partners
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong customer focus
• Track record of building and maintaining high performing teams