R&D Commercialization Manager

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to fulfill the role of R&D Commercialization Manager. In this dynamic position, you will lead the planning and implementation of critical improvement processes while also bridging the gap between Research and Development (R&D) initiatives and commercialization efforts for a global food manufacturer. Your primary responsibilities will include developing implementation plans and standards, coaching plant resources, leading commercialization processes, and ensuring seamless integration between R&D and commercialization to meet customer and company objectives.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Develop Implementation Plans and Standards:
• Assess operational metrics to identify opportunities for improvement in productivity and yield.
• Design and lead kaizen events and blitzes to implement 5-S, improve product/process flow, and increase mean time between failures.
• Champion problem-solving/root cause elimination to prevent recurrence.
• Commercialization Processes Leadership:
• Spearhead commercialization processes, ensuring alignment with customer and company needs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive successful product launches and market adoption.
• Coaching and Training:
• Provide training and qualify plant resources in improvement methodologies.
• Coach employees on implementation of project deliverables.
• R&D Integration Support:
• Prioritize and support R&D initiatives, ensuring comprehensive and accurate processes and data.
• Work closely with R&D teams to optimize research outputs and streamline workflows.
• Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance:
• Collaborate with Quality and Food Safety Departments to validate and ensure accuracy of product development information.
• Implement measures to guarantee adherence to regulatory standards and industry best practices.
• Project Management and Reporting:
• Provide regular project updates to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment.
• Foster communication channels to maintain alignment and responsiveness to market demands.
• Production Support and Process Improvement:
• Collaborate with Production teams to enhance processes, achieving improved yields and cost-efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction while maintaining or improving product quality.
• Risk Management:
• Anticipate and mitigate potential process or product failures by working closely with Operations.
• Develop and implement preventive measures, process controls, and training programs to ensure efficient, high-quality production.
  
  

Qualifications And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, food science, business management/analytics, or a related scientific field; advanced degree preferred.
• Three to Five years of experience in food manufacturing operations with a focus on continuous improvement and commercialization.
• Proven experience in project management and communication.
• Six Sigma certification preferred.
• Knowledge of quality standards, food safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
  
  

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for driving innovation from conception to market success, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on our company's growth and success. Please email resume to [email protected] or call 815.520.8401 for more information.