Research and Development specialistInnovative Packaging Industry Corp.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Provides leadership and support for the design, development, refinement, and implementation of products by doing research to identify consumer needs; develop new products to meet consumer needs; research consumer acceptance of products; work with manufacturing to identify product improvements, identify co-pack opportunities; develop introductory market programs to introduce new products; and lead status meetings to drive programs or new product initiatives to market. Periodically presents project updates to the management
Champion prioritized new concepts/products through the “Stage Gate” development process. Activities to include:
Formulary and costing
Document all phases of research and development and ensures that records and necessary information are up date and well are well kept.
Internal product/process validation testing
Specification data disbursement
Test pilot operational run
Customer/Market test
Production scale up
Handle all aspects of taking successful new product concepts through commercialization. Where appropriate, develop an introduction team with members from key functional areas to insure a coordinated and successful introduction.
Ensures procedures and specifications are in place before commercial run for new products; updated if there are changes and implemented, and helps devise new development techniques
Responsible for Performance Evaluation Analysis. Activities to include:
Customer/Market feedback
Champion identified improvements
Ensure key learnings and best practice are documented and shared institutionally.
Implement improvements in project management tools and methodologies.
Develop and refine specifications for new and/or existing products including nutritional analysis and calculations and shelf life and or stability testing.
Responsible for resolution of technical issues that arise during the development; production, operational, or performance based.
Maintain ongoing communication with Sales and Marketing, Procurement, Manufacturing and Engineering to ensure a thorough understanding of emerging new ingredients, packaging and manufacturing technology. Incorporate this learning into new product development process.
Serve in cross-functional roles & responsibilities in support of corporate objectives
Lead role of the Product Management Team
Participation in Sales & Operations Planning process
Strategic Planning team
Transfer new technologies, products and manufacturing process into and out of company.
Manages subordinate staff in the day to day performance of their jobs. Provides the required coaching and training and conducts performance evaluation of subordinates.
Execute improved technologies used by suppliers, competitors and customers.
Conducts customer Visits and Product Testing
Stay informed on what is happening in the research and development field at large in order to make sure their company is up-to-date and current with the most advanced R&D developments
OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education
Bachelor's/College Degree
Field of study
Food Technology/Nutrition/Dietetics
Specialization
Food Tech/Nutritionist
Communication skill, attention to detail, Analytical skills, Teamwork, Active listening skills, Leadership