Sr. Innovation Manager

SNACK CRAFT (MASTER)•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Innovation Manager will lead the development and implementation of innovative strategies and processes to drive the growth and competitive advantage of SnackCraft, a leading copacker. This role involves managing cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring the successful execution of innovation initiatives, with a strong focus on food science and technology.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in food science, food technology, or a related field.
7-10 years proven experience in innovation management, preferably in the food industry.
Experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects.
Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
In-depth knowledge of food science, innovation processes, market analysis, and project management principles.
Experience with PowerPoint, Excel.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation.
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities at the same time while meeting deadlines.
Interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish effective professional relationships with employees and project managers.
Strong leadership skills and collaboration of teams.
Strong problem-solving skills.
Must demonstrate strong management skills.
Must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by established Company Safety standards.

Nice To Haves

A master's degree or professional certifications are preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead R&D for new food products, especially in emerging areas like alternative proteins, plant-based foods, and fermentation.
Oversee formulation, ingredient selection, and sensory optimization.
Translate scientific findings into commercially viable food products.
Explore and implement novel processing technologies and manufacturing methods.
Develop and track metrics to measure the success and progress of innovative initiatives.
Optimize production processes for scalability, efficiency, and sustainability.
Conduct feasibility studies and pilot trials.
Ensure products meet FDA, HACCP, and other relevant standards.
Guide accurate nutrition labeling and allergen declarations.
Maintain documentation for audits and regulatory submissions.
Ensure all new products and processes comply with relevant food safety and regulatory standards.
Align innovation strategies with business goals and market trends.
Collaborate with marketing, operations, and external partners (e.g., universities, suppliers).
Represent the organization at industry events and innovation forums.
Lead cross-functional innovation teams.
Manage timelines, budgets, and deliverables for R&D projects.
Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of innovation.
Monitor global food trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies.
Identify opportunities for intellectual property and competitive advantage.
Follow and enforce all OSHA Safety Regulation and Safety Rules.
Utilize knowledge and research methods to benchmark materials, planning activities and to drive best practice results.
Work towards and support a culture of continuous improvement and work to make business and department improvements wherever possible.
Responsible for following all food safety policies, procedures and regulatory criteria including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
Other duties as assigned.