Research and Development Project Manager

Senior Customer R&D Project Manager - Confectionery

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Our client, a world class leader in the confectionery industry, is again growing and now seeking a top caliber Senior Customer R&D Project Manager.

• Project Management: Lead and manage complex new product development projects from theoretical recipes to lab prototype and industrial product for internal and external clients. Ensure full project follow-up and completion of necessary project documents, including recipe creation. Drive complete project from concept to commercialization.
• Project Leadership: Provide guidance and direction to the R&D product experts and technologists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment. Translate technical learnings and insights into commercial opportunities. Lead also customer projects for PDI or innovations with our Product Experts and Innovation people.
• Technical Expertise: Offer necessary technical support and expertise to vendors, customers, operations and quality when product-related problems occur. Advise the sales team on technical and application matters. Provide assistance to all departments as needed regarding technical issues related to confectionery product manufacturing.
• Customer Engagement: Actively participate in customer visits and plant trials, providing technical expertise and support to drive successful customer projects.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Actively participate in various projects of the Research and Development team, maintaining close interaction with Sales, Operations, Quality, Sourcing and cocoa R&D within the country or region.
• Customer Relations: Serve as the key technical contact for the customer, building strong relationships and effectively communicating project updates, technical recommendations, and solutions.
• Market Development: Identify and pursue new market opportunities by providing technical support and insights to existing and potential customers.
• Project Documentation: Oversee, ensure and complete accurate and comprehensive project follow-up, documentation, including recipe creation.

• Fluency in the local country language and proficient in English.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in the food industry, with a strong focus on new product development. Extensive knowledge of the confectionery sector is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in leading and managing cross-functional teams. Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop team members.
• Solution driven, capable of working under pressure, and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and leadership of influence.
• Strong analytical mindset, with the ability to translate technical findings into actionable insights and commercial opportunities.
• Flexibility and willingness to travel as needed.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including external customer communication. Ability to present technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, Google suites and Salesforce required. Knowledge of SAP or other project management software is an asset.

Up to 30% of time.

$,000, based on experience plus bonus and comprehensive benefits package.

• Paid time off, plus generous holiday time.
• Environment that welcomes workplace flexibility.
• An atmosphere where diversity is embraced, and inclusivity is second nature.
• Ability to grow personally and professionally within an organization that values development and internal career growth.
• Be part of our mission in making sustainability the norm.
• This is a growth opportunity with a world class leader.
• Relocation assistance is available if necessary.
• You must be a Permanent Resident of the USA or hold a valid Green Card to be considered.

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Manufacturing, Research, and Product Management

• Food and Beverage Manufacturing and Sugar and Confectionery Product Manufacturing