Core Manager Improvement/ Commercialization

YUM! Brands, Inc. • Plano, TX

39d

About The Position

You will supercharge KFC US' finger lickin' good menu by leading the improvement of our core menu with crave-worthy, innovative products that delight our guests. Your mission will be to develop / tweak our core products menu by spearheading research, testing, and evaluation of new ingredients / products.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited 4-year university, preferably in Food Science or related field.
• 8+ years of relevant work experience required with Bachelor's, prefered 4+ years with Master's.
• Experience in a Product Development position for a quick service restaurant brand with exposure to creating and commercializing successful new products.
• Ability to guide and support direct reports to deliver on team objectives while continuing to develop as a people leader.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to collaborate effectively across functions and present to stakeholders.
• Solid analytical skills to interpret data and make practical, action-oriented recommendations.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to deliver results in a dynamic, fast-paced environment .
• Committed to excellence and upholding high standards in product quality and execution.
• Flexible and resourceful when faced with ambiguity, with a problem-solving mindset.
• Persistent and resilient in driving projects forward despite challenges.
• Thrive in a collaborative environment and value developing yourself and others.

Responsibilities

• Owning new product development
• Lead improvements on core menu items by enhancing taste, quality, and consistency while ensuring brand standards.
• Collaborate closely with suppliers and cross-functional partners to refine ingredients, processes, and specifications for scalability.
• Conduct product evaluations and trials to validate consumer expectations and operational feasibility.
• Leverage consumer insights and operational feedback to recommend opportunities that improve menu relevance and value perception.
• Balance quality with cost-effectiveness and sustainability in ingredient sourcing and product improvements.
• Represent the FIT team in cross-functional meetings by sharing progress on deliverables, identifying issues, and proposing solutions.
• Provide day-to-day guidance and support to the team by setting clear expectations, giving feedback, and helping them deliver on objectives.

Benefits

• Be part of a major transformation for a historic and iconic brand, driving innovation in menu development and product improvement.
• Gain valuable experience designing, planning, and managing complex research and development projects that shape the future of KFC US's offerings.
• Build expertise in collaborating with Brand Managers, cross-functional teams, and suppliers to create innovative and exciting menu items.
• Contribute to the creation of new products and processes that enhance customer satisfaction and align with the brand's strategic goals.
• Develop leadership skills while playing a pivotal role in driving menu improvements for a globally recognized brand.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Food Services and Drinking Places
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees