Associate Director - Innovation (Multiple Positions)

The Kraft Heinz Company•Chicago, IL

1d•$164,200 - $205,200•Onsite

About The Position

As an Associate Director, Innovation, you will be responsible for shaping and executing a multi‑year innovation strategy rooted in meaningful consumer needs. You will operate at the intersection of strategy and execution, leading innovation from concept through commercialization while partnering closely with cross‑functional teams across the organization. In this role, you will provide strategic clarity, translate insights into action, and guide decision‑making through complexity. You will balance consumer‑first thinking with financial and operational considerations, bringing a strong point of view and influencing senior stakeholders to drive sustainable growth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required
9+ years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in innovation marketing, brand management, or product management
Proven experience setting strategic direction and mobilizing cross‑functional teams toward shared goals
Strong background in innovation leadership, including end‑to‑end commercialization experience
Advanced analytical skills with the ability to synthesize data into clear insights and compelling stories
Demonstrated P&L understanding and strong business acumen
Enthusiasm for consumer marketing, innovation trends, and cultural insights
Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and deliver results within defined timelines
Confidence engaging and influencing senior and executive‑level stakeholders

Nice To Haves

MBA with a marketing emphasis a plus

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain a multi‑year, consumer‑led innovation strategy aligned to business priorities
Lead cross‑functional teams to bring innovation from early concepts through launch and scale, partnering with Insights, R&D, Quality, Legal, Engineering, Operations, Sales, and Finance
Own innovation through the stage‑gate process, providing clear visibility to senior leadership on opportunities, trade‑offs, and recommendations
Manage agency partners supporting innovation development, including design and consumer validation efforts
Leverage syndicated data, performance tracking, and competitive analysis to assess innovation effectiveness and inform future direction
Apply a consumer‑first mindset to decision‑making while balancing brand integrity, financial performance, and operational feasibility
Shape portfolio and innovation architecture decisions, ensuring clarity and consistency in how innovation is brought to market
Clearly articulate strategy, insights, and vision to senior and executive leadership audiences