Lead, R&D – Product Development

Lead, R&D – Away From Home Product Development at a glance

This is a Research and Development Lead role responsible for delivering product commercialization excellence and future ways of working for the AFH Business Unit across Innovation, Productivity, and Maintenance. The role operates with an Agile mindset to drive continuous improvement strategies and create the leading Food Service organization in the country. The position will offer a seat within the AFH leadership team driving business advancement with the Leads and Directors from Marketing, Operations, Culinary, Procurement, Quality, and R&D.

As the R&D AFH Lead, the role will interface with new FS customers directly to win new business and sell in KHC brand equity and speed to market.

• Directly lead a team of 7 product developers
• Deliver the strategic plans for the AFH business across Growth, Productivity, and Maintenance
• Identify and implement continuous improvement and Agile ways of working to create the industry leading Food Service business team
• Resolve all supply risk and customer service issues to ensure business continuity and customer satisfaction
• Lead technical project presentations in Stage Gate and PMR meetings
• Work directly with the business units, cross-functional teams, plants, and suppliers as the R&D product category lead to manage projects and direct developers
• Lead the product resources and budget for the category

• Bachelor’s Degree (Masters is a plus) - Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering
• 10+ years of experience in the food industry preferred
• Demonstrated people leadership and strong ability to build effective teams
• Growth mindset
• Challenge self and others to see and apply new insights
• Strong experience in commercialization
• Understanding of ingredient interactions/functionality
• Self-motivated problem solver and the drive to deliver objectives in a complex, fast-paced environment
• Excellent influencing skills
• Willingness to travel 20% pending business needs. Travel could include (but not limited to): within United States and Canada to internal plants, co‑manufacturers, and suppliers.

Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz’ strategy and values.

Details of the salary range will be discussed during the interview process.

This position is eligible for a performance‑based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.

The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.

Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well‑being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

• Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
• Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
• Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
• Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Glenview R&D Center

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact  for assistance.