Senior Sensory Scientist

Suntory Global Spirits • Clermont, KY

7d

About The Position

The Senior Sensory Scientist influences liquid innovation, optimization, quality, and production across Suntory Global Spirits’ portfolio, including distilled spirits and ready-to-drink beverages. The role uses and develops sensory, consumer, and analytical methods to guide product innovation and development while maintaining liquid quality. The scientist identifies trends, develops solutions to business challenges, designs and leads rigorous research, and turns findings into actionable recommendations. The role works with Product Development, Marketing, Consumer Insights, Operations, and internal and external partners on new products, processes, quality improvements, and cost savings. It also builds relationships across the global organization and contributes to both near-term projects and longer-term research initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Statistics, Psychology, or a related field.
• At least 6 years of experience in sensory and consumer research using a diverse range of methodologies, or at least 4 years with a Master’s degree.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for research and project engagements, approximately 10% to 30% of the time.
• Ability to work primarily in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments, including extended periods of standing and moving and lifting objects up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to taste limited quantities of alcoholic beverage samples in alignment with research objectives.
• Strong interest in contributing to and promoting an inclusive culture.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree with a focus on Sensory Science.
• Experience with beverages, particularly distilled spirits and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.

Responsibilities

• Lead custom sensory and consumer product research initiatives using methods such as descriptive analysis and quantitative and qualitative consumer research, from study design through execution, analysis, and recommendations.
• Build strong relationships with cross-functional teams and external research suppliers.
• Manage multiple projects, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Analyze data thoroughly and translate findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences.
• Develop and present recommendations that support product innovation and quality enhancement.
• Use experience in experimental design and comprehensive category appraisals.
• Communicate effectively, follow up on commitments, deliver on time, and give and receive constructive feedback.
• Stay informed about new approaches and best practices in sensory and consumer research and improve research methods.
• Contribute to a collaborative, positive, and inclusive team environment.

What This Job Offers

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