Product Specifications Senior Manager

Whataburger Restaurants•San Antonio, TX

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Product Specifications Senior Manager, you'll lead the systems, processes, and governance that ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of product specifications, nutrition, allergen, and sensory data across the Whataburger system. You'll serve as a strategic partner to Food Safety & Quality Assurance, Product Innovation, Supply Chain, Operations, and supplier partners to ensure product information is accurate, accessible, and aligned with regulatory and brand standards. In this role, you'll Make a Difference by protecting the quality and accuracy of the information our teams and customers depend on every day. You'll Serve with Heart by helping maintain transparency and trust through accurate nutrition, allergen, and labeling information. You'll Win as One by building strong partnerships across teams and suppliers to support shared business objectives. And you'll Move Forward Boldly by advancing systems, processes, and sensory programs that strengthen compliance, support innovation, and drive continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Animal Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience
10+ years of experience in product specifications, FSQA, regulatory affairs, technical documentation, or related food industry functions
Experience managing nutrition, allergen, ingredient, and labeling information
Experience leading and developing teams
Strong knowledge of food labeling and regulatory requirements
Working knowledge of HACCP principles and food safety systems
Experience with nutrition analysis and product data management systems
Strong project management and prioritization skills
Advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Nice To Haves

Experience within the restaurant, QSR, or food manufacturing industry
Experience managing specification management or document control platforms
Direct experience with sensory science programs and panel management
Experience leading cross-functional initiatives across Product Innovation, Supply Chain, Operations, and QA teams
Experience managing external laboratories, testing partners, or regulatory vendors
Advanced expertise in nutrition analysis and regulatory documentation
Experience implementing systems, process improvements, or continuous improvement initiatives

Responsibilities

Lead product specification governance and document control processes
Ensure accuracy of nutrition, allergen, labeling, and ingredient data
Oversee nutrition systems, databases, and related software tools
Audit supplier nutrition and ingredient information for compliance and accuracy
Validate product and formulation changes across specifications and nutrition data
Support FSQA compliance, audits, inspections, and risk mitigation efforts
Manage external nutritional testing and verification activities
Lead internal and external sensory evaluation programs
Maintain ingredient standards and approved ingredient requirements
Partner cross-functionally to support product integrity and regulatory compliance
Develop, coach, and lead a high-performing team
Drive process improvements that enhance data quality and operational effectiveness

Benefits

Competitive Weekly Pay
Bonus Program that scales up to 2.5X payout potential based on company results
5 weeks PTO
Flex Weeks
Paid Corporate Holidays
Paid Parental Leave
401(k) match $1/$1 up to 4%
Competitive Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
Short-term and Long-term Disability Benefits
Opportunities for Career Development and Growth
Whataburger Family Foundation - Scholarship Program (dependents eligible) and Hardship Grant Assistance
Discounted Meals for You and a Guest
Wireless Service Discounts
Computer & Software Discounts
Fitness / Gym Discounts
Awards and recognition for all you do
Retirement Celebration Program