Position Summary: Responsible for managing the process and the development of food products based upon customer requests and company initiatives.
The Director of R&D will develop new products not currently manufactured, products matching or exceeding target product, and products similar to those the company is currently producing.
This position is also responsible for leading a team of R&D professionals.
About 8thAvenue 8thAvenue is a leading, private brand-centric consumer products holding company, manufacturing and selling private brand food products primarily to retail, foodservice, and ingredient customers.
8thAvenue Food & Provisions was formed in October 2018 through a combination of Post Holdings private brands businesses.
The company is owned by Post Holdings and funds affiliated with Thomas H.
Lee Partners, L.P.
(THL), a private equity firm.
Job Duties: Directs and oversees all aspects of the R&D Department.This includes developing and implementing all department policies and procedures, oversight of staffing, training, scheduling, work assignments and performance evaluations of team members, and oversight of department budget.
Leads employees to work collaboratively internally and with all external teams in order to execute projects that meet customer needs, generate cost savings, as well as those that make quality improvements to products and processes in the manufacturing plant and at co-manufacturers.
Works closely with the senior leadership team to understand the nature of customer requests, to communicate progress, clarify issues, and resolve problems.
Facilitates gate-keeping, decision-making and displays technical competence in the planning and completion of assigned projects leading to the development and production of new or revised products.
Creates recipes that have a demonstrated appeal to targeted consumer.
Along with the rest of the R&D team, produces prototype products, interacting with QA, operations, sales and the senior leadership staff.
Develops and implements portfolio metrics and develops gap analysis.
Oversees and makes appropriate recommendations to all levels in the organization through written or oral presentations.
Communicates milestones, progress and concerns to the president.
Participates and supports QA team in annual SQF certification, including internal audits and paperwork compliance.
Conducts Innovation work sessions and develops new product concept in the lab.Set-ups and operates standard lab equipment/techniques of moderate complexity.
Combines nutrition with functionality, and has a detailed understanding of nutrition labels, including Food allergens, non-GMO, Kosher, gluten free, natural, organic, etc.
Attends industry trade shows as needed.
Attends and audits co-manufacturing production as needed.
Plays an active role in the education and development of R&D staff.
Other duties as assigned.
Required Competencies & Knowledge: Knowledge of: The chemical makeup of component ingredients.
Food allergens, non-GMO, Kosher, gluten free, organic, etc.
Food production processes, manufacturing, GMPs and operations.
Strong knowledge of R&D and best business practices Extensive change / project management knowledge Skilled in: Project management Data analysis and problem solving using defined methodologies Excellent organization and time management Continuous improvement techniques and methodologies Demonstrating professional behavior and integrity with company directives Decision making and follow through Strong communication skills both verbally and in writing Effective business writing Ability to: Formulate recipes.
Source and evaluate component ingredients.
Write product specs.
Ensure collaborative relationships with industry, trade, other associations, regulatory agencies, team members, and employees Multi-task and prioritize work Work effectively with all levels of the organization Lead cross functional teams Work independently Proficiency in: MS Office Suite (Excel), Manufacturing ERP system (Oracle or JDE preferred), Sharepoint, Web-based programs.
Minimum Qualifications : Bachelors Degree in Food Science, Chemistry or a related field.
10 years of progressively responsible experience in the food industry.
5 years of experience leading teams.
Experience working successfully with customers and suppliers.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be qualifying by Jobble