Senior Manager, R&D

The Hershey Company • Lower Swatara Township, PA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Based at The Hershey Company’s Technical Center, the Senior Manager, R&D will lead consumer-led innovation, renovation, and commercialization for US CMG Chocolate – Cadburry, Kit Kat® and Variety Brands. This role sits within Research & Development and partners closely with Marketing, Consumer Insights, Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to deliver breakthrough products and ensure business continuity. The role provides a unique opportunity to shape iconic brands, lead a large and diverse team, and drive innovation from concept through full-scale commercialization at the Sweetest Place on Earth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or related scientific discipline.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in product development, innovation, and commercialization (advanced degrees may reduce experience requirements in line with company standards).
• Proven leadership experience managing technical teams and complex, cross-functional programs.
• Strong background in food product development and commercialization, preferably within confectionery and/or snacks.
• Demonstrated expertise in protein formulation and process technologies (e.g., chocolate molding, slab/slit, extrusion, enrobing).
• Experience scaling and validating product and process technologies from pilot to full-scale manufacturing.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and change leadership capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels, including executive leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute innovation and brand renovation strategies for Cadburry, Kit Kat® and Variety Brands, ensuring alignment with business objectives and consumer insights.
• Set technical direction for formulation, process development, scale-up, and commercialization across multiple innovation platforms.
• Provide portfolio technical support, including business continuity, cost improvement initiatives, and selected accelerated market test launches.
• Lead and develop the R&D Production Crew, including oversight of microbattles and pilot-scale manufacturing activities.
• Manage program priorities, resources, timelines, and risks; provide clear progress updates to senior leadership.
• Build strong cross-functional partnerships to ensure disciplined execution through the stage-gate process.
• Attract, develop, and retain top R&D talent; foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Lead a team of 8–10 professional staff, 10–12 R&D Production Crew Operators, and additional contractors or consultants as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior