Address
Form of work
SalaryResearch and Development Manager
Department: Food Service Group
Reports to: Head of Food Service Group
Classification: Exempt
A. JOB SUMMARY:
The Research and Development Manager performs research, develops, and tests new and existing food items for the Company’s multiple brands. The Research and Development Manager also develops, monitors, and reports project plans. Responsibilities include but are not limited to, working with the Commissary Department, Marketing Department, Buying Department, and Operations Group, as well as outside vendor resources to develop unique and authentic Filipino products and staples that are consistent with the Company’s business strategies and goals as the leading Filipino – Asian retailer in North America.
B. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Oversees all research, development, and testing of new food items and new or alternative ingredients to improve existing items for the Company’s brands (including core menu, promotional and seasonal items) of authentic Filipino cuisine, products, and staples for our growing customer base in North America.
2. Oversees and manages ongoing projects of R&D Specialists.
3. Ensures that all our new authentic Filipino products tested are consistent with brand concept, operational feasibility, and meeting target budget parameters.
4. Manages the development of recipes, procedures, and complete specifications to ensure consistent execution of menus and products according to established Company standards.
5. Monitors and provides updates to management on project status to ensure timely product or menu changes while working with internal departments and external resources to develop recipes and food production methods.
6. Maintains favorable relationships with vendors to maximize vendor resources and achieve project goals, including industry intelligence and best practices.
7. Collaborates with Operations, Marketing, and other internal departments to create new ideas for new authentic Filipino product development (i.e., promotional ideas, location-specific items).
8. Develops, tests, and presents new or improved products.
9. Oversees testing and evaluation of new equipment and recommends the purchase of equipment or small wares and/or procedural changes based on available research and testing.
10. Manages and directs the Operations team as necessary; Conducts training to support existing and new product initiatives.
11. Audits implementation of quality systems in the stores, in accordance with the Company objectives of providing cost-effective, best quality and safe food products.
12. Validates and documents standard product recipes, preparation procedures, and costing for compliance with prescribed portion, quality and costing requirement for both the central kitchen and the stores.
13. Sets up, implements, and monitors food quality systems.
14. Troubleshoots food quality problems and develops and implements solutions.
15. Participates in meetings on new product development and provides input on new product concepts. Recommends ingredients in recipes.
16. Reviews, analyzes and recommends changes in raw materials, processing methods, or diseases that could impact the Company’s products or processes.
17. Reviews all supplier specifications on food raw materials and conducts independent research on small lots to determine levels of vitamins, fat, sugar, or protein needed to develop new authentic Filipino cuisine products and staples for our growing market in North America.
18. Responsible for hiring, training, disciplining, conducting employee performance evaluations, and if appropriate, terminating or recommending termination of employees.
19. Respond to and resolve personnel issues relating to staff, including employee conflicts, excessive absenteeism, punctuality issues, performance problems, and leaves of absence.
20. Provides training and guidance to new and existing staff as needed.
C. ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. May be asked to assume additional tasks and responsibilities if appropriate.
D. QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Four-year food-related degree preferred. At least 5 years of relevant product development experience focusing on authentic Filipino cuisine and staples, and a working knowledge of food science related to Food Service and food processing applications. A Master’s Degree in Business or a related field is preferred.
2. Must have demonstrated ability to develop food products for a multi-unit Food Service concept successfully.
3. Must be able to work in a highly collaborative, fast-paced work environment.
4. Must have excellent management and organizational skills.
5. Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
6. Must be highly developed and demonstrate teamwork skills.
7. Must demonstrate a high degree of confidence and common sense.
8. Must be able to multi-task, work in a high-demand environment and meet deadlines.
9. Must be able to travel to multiple locations.
10. Must be able to make quick decisions and take appropriate steps on workplace issues even when working in a high-demand environment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $44,967.43 - $72,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
- Master's (Required)
Experience:
- Product development: 5 years (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Pomona, CA 91768: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
