Project R&D Manager

About the role

The Project R&D Manager – Chocolate & Creams is responsible for leading the development, reformulation, and industrialization of chocolate and cream-based products from concept to commercialization. This role plays a critical part in delivering innovation, ensuring product quality, optimizing processes, and supporting business growth through technical expertise and cross-functional project leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects related to chocolate and creams, from initial concept through scale-up and commercial launch, ensuring alignment with strategic goals
• Develop and reformulate products based on customer requirements, market trends, cost optimization, and regulatory compliance
• Coordinate and execute pilot plant trials, lab experiments, and industrial validations, collaborating with production, quality, procurement, and marketing
• Support innovation roadmap development by proposing new product ideas, technologies, and ingredients
• Ensure product specifications, documentation, and technical data sheets are created and maintained accurately
• Evaluate raw materials and ingredients, working with suppliers and procurement to ensure quality, availability, and functionality
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to ensure food safety, compliance, and shelf-life targets are met
• Work closely with Sales and Marketing to provide technical support, presentations, and samples for customer projects
• Monitor industry trends and competitive products to drive innovation and differentiation
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining timelines, budgets, and priorities

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related field required
• 7+ years of progressive experience in product development, commercialization, or food manufacturing
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale NPD projects
• Strong background in customer-facing roles within B2B/Supplier environment
• Ability to travel up to 20%

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision
• 401(k) matching
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Employee Education Tuition Reimbursement Program