Sensory Panel Leader

About the role

We're searching for a proactive and ambitious Sensory Panel Leader to join our growing sensory team in Pleasantville, New York. This full-time, hybrid role combines panel leadership of our expert sensory panel with aspects of project management. You will deliver sensory projects from leading panel sessions to assisting with report writing, ensuring research design, panel session planning, leadership, and sensory moderation fulfill clients’ needs.

Responsibilities

• Manage the sensory panel and lead panel sessions on clients’ projects, ensuring smooth delivery of sensory research and high-quality descriptive analysis data.
• Direct the Sensory Panel Assistant to safeguard the full proficiency of the preparation and facilitation of the sensory panel(s) and product management.
• Recruit and train new panelists.
• Collect and analyze panel monitoring data on each project and provide relevant feedback and one-to-one reviews with sensory panelists to maximize data quality, panel engagement, and motivation.
• Brief and liaise with colleagues from the sensory team and other departments, creating relevant documentation/materials to ensure accurate and timely execution of research.
• Draw up schedules (timing, briefings, etc.) and coordinate all aspects of each project.
• Assist with product preparation and serving as required.
• Ensure clients are kept up to date with project progress and sign off on relevant documentation.
• Support report delivery, including protocols, methodologies, lexicons, inventory tracking, chart creation, and interpretation.
• Promote a positive and pleasant working environment for all at MMR.

Requirements

• 2-3 years of sensory panel leading experience, including descriptive analysis.
• A Bachelor's degree, ideally in a relevant field such as Food Science, Sensory Science, Experimental Psychology, or Sociology.
• IT literacy with experience in sensory data capture software beneficial.
• Ability to self-manage and switch between tasks according to business needs and changing priorities.
• Strong communication skills, keeping team members informed of potential issues and contributing ideas.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to multitask.
• Strong team player able to maintain open and honest relationships with colleagues and clients, building trust and confidence.
• Self-starter who takes initiative and demonstrates flexibility in a dynamic environment with a passion for seeking effective and efficient ways of working.
• Passion for working in sensory.
• Great attention to detail, with the ability to check work for inconsistencies and rectify errors.

About MMR Research

MMR Research Worldwide is the global sensory and consumer research expert behind many of the world’s biggest brands in food, drink, personal, and household care. We help turn great ideas into products people truly love by blending science, creativity, and curiosity. With teams across the UK, US, Asia, and Africa, we shape the future of everyday products. We foster a collaborative culture driven by strong leadership and offer industry-leading training and growth opportunities.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries.
• Generous holiday allowances.
• Market-leading training opportunities.
• Focus on employee well-being and a vibrant, supportive culture.

Pay

$60,000 - $70,000 per year.

Schedule

Full-time, hybrid.

Location: Pleasantville, NY.