Research & Development Manager

The Research & Development Manager leads a team of food scientists to develop, launch, and improve new and existing products to support the Kagome strategic plan. Support and ensure compliance with all programs, policies, and procedures outlined in the Food Safety and Quality Management System. Fulfill assigned food safety and regulatory responsibilities in accordance with the SQF Food Safety Code, including promptly reporting any concerns to initiate corrective action. Actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S and

EOS. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage and train food scientists in the development of new products, processes, and optimizations.
• Manage all New Product, Product Improvement, and Cost reduction projects.
• Identify, research, and test new ingredients, technology, platforms, and processes that meet current needs and/or will enable future development as prioritized by the business.
• Develop, implement, and manage systems and processes that improve the efficiency and productivity of the department. Support the development of the skills necessary for constant improvement and forward-thinking strategies within the department and support the needs of our customers.
• Manage and track total costs associated with projects and develop clear understanding of optimal resource spend.
• Drive product development activities that are customized to the customers' needs to realize and company goals and objectives.
• Provide regulatory, product costing, and technical support to internal and external customers.
• Manage and participate in all stages of the product development process from concept through successful commercialization and further optimizations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with customers, vendors, and other industrial contacts to support Kagome's goals and objectives.

POSITION DIMENSIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Internal Contacts:

All Kagome departments.

External Contacts:

Customers, Regulatory officers, Material Suppliers, Vendors.

Education Level:

B.S./B.A.

degree in Food Science or related field.

Years and Type of Related Experience Required:

Minimum 7-10 years of industrial experience in R D or Technical Services and Quality Assurance. Minimum 3 years of management experience, directly managing reports with demonstrated people growth.

Positions Supervised:

Food Scientist

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Uphold Kagome's Values:

Employee works well with others as a team and treats others with respect. Conducts self in a professional manner and exhibits the highest level of integrity. Maintains a positive attitude through good working relationships with our customers, visitors, and co-workers that emphasizes our commitment to good customer service.

Attendance:

Reliability and acceptable attendance are required. It is critical to be punctual and arrive on time for work and for meetings (if applicable).

Productivity:

Must consistently fulfill job responsibilities, knowing how to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively. If authorized to work remotely, must maintain the same levels of productivity and communication as they would in the office.

Employee Retention:

Build a culture employees and/or co-workers want to be a part of. Be helpful to others and work as a team toward company goals. Participate in an exceptional onboarding experience for new hires and ensure they have the necessary tools to succeed in their roles by welcoming and assisting them. Build employee engagement, recognize and reward employees, provide avenues for professional development, and manage to retain.

Interpersonal and Communication:

Must be well developed in communications skills both oral and written. Directly interfaces with customers, suppliers, and many internal company departments. Must be able to communicate effectively with co-workers and management team.

Technical and Analytical:

Analytical, Chemical, and microbiological knowledge and experience in formulation, laboratory, sensory analysis techniques/methods. Culinary experience is an added benefit.

Administration and Operations:

Computer Skill using various software. Planning and problem solving.

Travel Requirements:

Must be able to travel within the US & internationally to visit customer sites and Global Kagome facilities

Physical Demands:

Sitting at a computer terminal, standing, and walking for long periods of time.

Work Environment:

Working in both an office environment and food technology lab with moderate noise levels. May be exposed to some food related chemicals. In plant will be exposed to food processing environment with changes in temperatures, damp conditions. Some lifting and prolonged standing required. This is a Safety Sensitive position.

Special Equipment Used:

A valid driver's license will be required.

Analytical, kitchen and pilot plant equipment.

Personal computer (specific experience with Excel, Word & PowerPoint)General office equipment; fax, copier, phone etc.