Product Development Manager - Fresh / Processed Meats

Responsibilities

Independently learns / participates in all product development and maintenance activities related to specific categories assigned with Manager & Product Development Manager (PDM) trainers.
Manages key product and packaging initiatives and strategies to execute against realistic, deliverable timelines with cross-functional stakeholders.
Participates in / learns processes to understand market trends, product development practices, product evaluations, specification documentation, and ingredient and nutrition disciplines of assigned categories in conjunction with PDM trainer and Manager.
Learns / participates in decision-making on competitive analysis and evaluations, project planning, product development, analytical testing, manufacturing, and related maintenance with PDM trainer and Manager.
Manages product development for select categories; may work with / support PDMs on projects.
Works collaboratively with QA, Procurement, CIC, OBMs, Regulatory, Self-Manufacturing, Global Sourcing, Culinary / R&D Chefs, suppliers, etc.
Safeguards products to meet quality, attribute, and financial goals and objectives.
Participates in / coordinates special projects as assigned.
Performs Product Development Assistant (PDA) project duties; coordinates / manages logistics for product evaluations (sample preparation, sample procurement, documentation, set up, facilitation, cleanup).

Requirements

3+ years of experience in product development, or comparable experience in related work.
Experience working with Processed Meats.

Qualifications

A related degree or comparable formal training, certification, or work experience.
3+ years of experience in product development, or comparable experience in related work.
Preferred Food Science background.

Skills

Strong working knowledge of consumer trends, how to identify / define key product quality and sensory attributes, product development, and production and process management.
Strong verbal / written communication and presentation skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong negotiating and influencing skills.
Proficiency in MS Office applications.
Ability to manage multiple priorities / deadlines, and shift focus between tasks; attention to detail.
Ability to communicate / navigate at all company levels.
Ability to collaborate / solve problems cross-functionally.
Ability to work through complex issues with senior colleagues.
Ability to provide proactive solutions with limited direction and input.
Ability to collaborate and influence others, activities for efficiency.
Initiative; willingness to take calculated risks and collaborate with key partners for alignment.
Creative aptitude; a passion to work with products (food and non-food).

Benefits

Functional in a fast-paced environment.
Travel by car or plane with overnight stays.
Work extended hours; sit for extended periods.
Regularly lift 20 lbs or more.