Product Innovation Manager

Job Description
GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE:
Implement vision and strategy while supporting Dole's portfolio of branded and private brand business in the U.S. and Canada. You will identify opportunities for innovation that will lead to channel / customer expansion and profitable growth, focusing on new category initiatives while managing our product portfolio so that the company's cross-functional resources are focused on the top product and packaging priorities.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS/DUTIES OF THE POSITION:

• Work collaboratively with Marketing, R&D, Commercialization, Sales, Purchasing, Operations and Finance to support Product Innovation, Optimization and Elimination initiatives.
• Lead collaborative cross-functional business initiatives through effective project management practices to meet deadlines and business objectives.
• Lead and participate in regular project meetings, and ensure timely dissemination of meeting agendas, meeting summaries and action steps.
• Strong financial skill set. Comfortable leading the development of a Product Proforma to manage Product Profitability.
• Assess Innovation opportunities using a broad spectrum of research resources including primary, secondary and syndicated data sources.
• Proficient at working with qualitative and quantitative data to develop presentations and provide lessons learned from new product launches.
• Collaborate with Sales and Category Development to present new product concepts, platforms and line extensions to customers.
• Manage budget and outside agency and vendor relationships.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills
JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:

• Minimum 2 - 4 years consumer brand management marketing experience in a traditional consumer packaged goods environment. Perimeter grocery category experience preferred.
• Proven ability to anticipate problems, understand root causes and provide solutions.
• Able to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously from start to finish.
• Able to self-manage (work independently) and meet agreed upon deadlines and budgets.
• Must be a very strong team player capable of working in a fast-paced environment.
• Resourceful with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Product-focused with a strong drive for results and passion for excellence in execution.
• Solid interpersonal skills and the ability to develop strong working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• Creative and highly adaptable to change, and the ability to think quickly on your feet.
• Collaborative and team-oriented with good listening skills.
• Passion for healthy foods, and a strong desire to improve consumers' lives with healthy, great tasting foods.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are required.
• Strong presentation skills are required (verbal and the use of PowerPoint)
• Customer presentation experience preferred
• Strong cross-functional project management skills; team-oriented.
• Experience managing new product concept development, testing and launches.
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office.
• High level of motivation and ability to work under pressure and supervision.
• Must have or be willing and able to procure valid passport for travel and be available for multi-day and overnight business travel.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to sit and use a computer for extended periods of time; ability to answer phones and utilize a variety of office equipment. Ability to lift a minimum of 15 lbs. and reach overhead.
WORK HOUR & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work overtime and/or weekends
• Ability to travel up to 15% (required)

Required Experience
EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:
B.S. degree in Marketing or related field. MBA preferred.
PAY RATE:

• $115,000 - $130,000 Annually

EEO STATEMENT: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.