Product Development Specialist

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Product Development Specialist will manage day-to-day processes for Product Development. This individual will be responsible for leading cross-functional teams, streamlining processes, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality products that meet market demands. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of project management expertise, high attention to detail and the ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BS/BA in Business Administration, Project Management; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum five years of experience managing cross-functional teams and projects in a production environment.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience using project management technologies like Asana, Microsoft Project, or Trello to manage a multifunctional team.
• Self-starter with the ability to manage and motivate key stakeholders through critical milestones.
• Process oriented with high attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office programs and Adobe Acrobat.
• Periodic lifting of up to 40lbs, pushing and pulling on occasion.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead cross-departmental new and revised Product Development process from concept inception to market.
• Manage Product Development budget and timelines to deliver products within budget and on time.
• Maintains inventory of R&D ingredients and tracks costs associated with Product Development.
• Prepare kitchen test samples and customer samples for products in development. This includes, but is not limited to blending of raw materials, deep frying, and/or baking.
• Conducts product testing and coordinates with divisional groups on product test runs.
• In partnership with Food Scientist, coordinates with production on testing and recommendations of ingredient specifications and changes.
• Writes test result reports and maintains testing historical data.
• Develops product data sheets summarizing critical product data points collected from the multi-functional team.
• Provides nutritional data and other product labeling information required by the federal and state government.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations and audit compliance documentation is beneficial.
• Travel required as needed for new business.