Job Description
Little Lady Foods, Inc., is a privately-held custom frozen food solutions provider. We are a rapidly growing organization that focuses on innovation, quality and speed to meet and exceed customer demands.
We have hired some of the industry’s most talented people. We are seeking an innovative Research & Development Director to lead a team in the development of new products from concept to commercialization, match products to national brands and modify current products to drive increased sales and profitability.
Innovative leadership strategy and development responsibilities:
• Champion and manage new product development, line extensions and projects from concept to commercialization. • Collaborate with the SVP to establish a technical innovation strategic plan for short term and long term growth including key areas of focus, key strategies and required resources. • Lead the development of culinary and technical insights to capitalize on upcoming food, processing and equipment trends and innovation breakthroughs. • Guide the development of products with recipes that match national brands for private labels. • Collaborate with customers; propose product or recipe changes that will increase consumer purchasing. • Partner effectively with internal and external teams to ensure flawless execution of innovative products. • Ensure the proper use of materials and communicate product attributes and specifications to quality assurance and supply chain functions to ensure product sourcing consistency with concepts and ongoing maintenance of products. • Actively participate in customer visits to present the company’s culinary strengths and ability to support the customer in commercialization. • Research, develop and approve ingredient specifications for new products.
Team Leadership and Management Responsibilities:
• Lead the product development team and align goals with company vision. • Model and facilitate creative process. • Mentor and coach team members to achieve maximum utilization of individual talents and contributions. • Foster innovative thinking and effective team processes.
Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in food science or related field. Culinary certificate a plus. • 10+ years prior food manufacturing experience in research & development. • Proven track record of departmental leadership, product development and commercialization success. • Strong presentation and organization skills. • Proven strategic thinking and on-trend vision. • Exceptional relationship building skills across functions and organization levels.
If you are looking for the next challenge in your career then this may be the opportunity for you!
We offer a competitive salary plus incentive package along with day-one benefits eligibility. Local candidates only.
No agency calls will be accepted.
Little Lady Foods, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer.
(208723)
