Manager, Culinary Product Development

• Who we are

With more than 13,000 stores in the U.S. and 84,000 stores globally, it is no wonder 7-Eleven, Inc. has been named an iconic brand. In addition to 7-Eleven stores, 7-Eleven, Inc. also operates and franchises Speedway, Stripes, Laredo Taco Company and Raise the Roost locations.

Since inventing the convenience industry in 1927, 7-Eleven has built a rich 96-year history filled with beloved products like Slurpee, Big Gulp and Big Bite, and fan-favorite holidays like Slurpee Day and Bring Your Own Cup Day.

Now, 7-Eleven is on a mission to contemporize the brand and redefine convenience – and we need your help.

• About This Opportunity

JOB SUMMARY:

Working in a fast paced and dynamic environment, the Culinary Product Development Manager will be responsible for leading the innovation, development, and menu pipeline for Laredo Taco Company.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

• Lead front to end product development, testing and commercialization through the 7-Eleven business system by working closely with a cross functional team (QA, Engineering, Purchasing, Ops Development, Sensory, Packaging, Marketing, etc) utilizing 7-Eleven’s MD Stage Gate Development Process
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in recipe development specifically for Mexican American QSR/Fast Casual Dining menus
• Identify high potential products/platforms to fill 1–2-year calendar pipeline for regional and national menus

• Develop strategies and timelines for product development projects; drive projects to ensure key milestones are met; identify contingency plans and assess risks.
• Experience in large scale product commercialization with manufacturer partners for all menu products including but not limited to proteins, sauces, salsa, toppings, tortillas and side items.
• Develop and foster supplier relationships to positively influence product development; use technical skills to outline development approach and guidelines.
• Manage nutritional labeling requests for Laredo Taco Company product launches.
• Develop recipe cards, job aids and training videos in partnership with L&D team for all new products and process launches in partnership with category and food operations design.
• Effectively communicate project details and strategies to groups to internal and external stakeholders, including presentations to executive level leadership and supplier partners.
• Specification development expertise for all ingredients/food products in TraceGains system.
• Utilize consumer insights and industry trends to identify high potential new product/platforms.
• Identify capabilities needed including equipment, packaging, ingredients, and longer-term innovation opportunities.
• Utilize food science principles and operational processes to troubleshoot product and process quality issues/areas for improvement.
• Regular travel (<30%) to markets, suppliers, 1st production runs, tradeshows etc.

EDUCATION: Bachelors/4 Yr Degree

YEARS OF RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE: 5+ years

YEARS OF MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE: NA

CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES: BSc Food Science, Culinary Science

SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

Product Development & Commercialization

Specification Development/Experience with TraceGains

Menu Development

Strong culinary skills

Foundational knowledge of quick serve restaurant operations