Food Innovation Manager - CareerPaths NW

Our client, a rapidly growing company in the pet supply industry, specializes in providing high-quality products such as dog treats, toys, and gear, with a strong focus on dog chew products. They foster a respectful and inclusive workplace culture that offers autonomy, growth opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package, including a 401k plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid holidays, PTO, paid sick leave, and annual performance reviews with potential pay increases.

They are seeking an energetic and passionate Food Innovation Manager to lead the development of innovative products in the better-for-your-pet treat space. This role involves managing the entire product pipeline, from initial concept to commercialization, and identifying emerging market trends. The Food Innovation Manager will work cross-functionally with teams across the company to coordinate sales, manufacturing, packaging, and supply chain logistics, ensuring smooth project execution.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the development and launch of innovative dog treat products.
• Identify promising market trends and lead the product ideation process.
• Manage project timelines, tasks, and team responsibilities through the stage-gate process.
• Collaborate with Marketing to identify customer needs and market opportunities.
• Work with Sales and Finance to assess demand forecasts and profitability projections.
• Plan and organize R&D activities and manage product life cycles.
• Coordinate with Manufacturing to evaluate materials, technologies, and equipment for production.
• Liaise with co-manufacturing partners to ensure successful transfer of new technologies and processes.
• Collaborate with QA and R&D teams to ensure consistent product quality and performance.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Engineering, Industrial Design, Marketing, Project Management, Food Science, or a related field.
• 2-4 years of experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment or with direct responsibility for product innovation.
• Experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Suite and project management software.
• Strong understanding of product technology, manufacturing processes, and design principles.
• Analytical skills to interpret market data, understand customer needs, and assess competitive landscapes.

If you are driven by innovation and eager to contribute to the development of high-quality pet products, our client encourages you to apply. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic team in a fast-paced industry with excellent benefits and career growth potential.