Description

ABOUT GOLDEN STATE FOODS

Golden State Foods is a distinguished leader in the food service industry, offering an extensive array of products and services to a diverse clientele. Rooted in the values of quality service and integrity, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where employees can advance, innovate, and contribute to our ongoing success. The Senior R D Manager leads product development strategy and execution to drive innovation, customer growth, operational excellence, and competitive advantage across Golden State Foods. Responsible for translating business and customer objectives into a robust innovation pipeline while leading successful commercialization, talent development, and cross-functional collaboration.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Develop and execute product innovation strategies aligned with business growth and customer objectives. Identify emerging consumer trends, ingredient technologies, and competitive opportunities. Drive innovation pipelines including new products, reformulations, line extensions, and cost optimization initiatives. Partner with Commercial, Procurement, Operations, and Quality teams to prioritize strategic opportunities. Lead, coach, and develop Product Development team members and succession plans. Build organizational capability through technical standards and best practices. Serve as the primary technical leader for strategic customer initiatives and presentations. Lead cross-functional teams from concept through commercialization. Oversee scale-up and commercialization activities to ensure successful implementation. Drive continuous improvement in speed-to-market, development processes, and manufacturing consistency. Provide technical leadership in food chemistry, ingredient functionality, processing, sensory science, and food safety. Evaluate new ingredients, suppliers, and technologies to improve quality and competitiveness. Maintain awareness of regulatory requirements and industry developments. Perform other duties as assigned. Travel required