Lead portions of the new product development process, including concept development, benchtop prototyping, ingredient exploration, and formulation refinement. Conduct product evaluations, sensory testing, and in-restaurant validations to assess consumer acceptance, operational feasibility, and product performance. Partner with suppliers to support the development of new ingredients and components, review technical data, and help refine specifications required for scale-up and commercialization. Analyze consumer insights, operational data, and cost implications to guide product decisions and recommend improvements that enhance appeal, feasibility, and value. Collaborate cross-functionally (Marketing, Operations, QA, Supply Chain/RSCS) and deliver clear reports, technical documents, and presentations that communicate progress, findings, and recommendations. Monitor food, flavor, and QSR innovation trends to identify whitespace opportunities and inspire forward-thinking product concepts. Represent the FIT team in innovation and commercialization meetings by providing product development expertise, sharing updates, identifying risks, and contributing solutions. Own and independently manage defined NPD projects from concept through testing phases, ensuring timely progress, alignment to brand strategy, and readiness for scale-up. You will collaborate closely with the broader Food Innovation team and cross-functional partners across Marketing, Operations, QA, Supply Chain/RSCS, and supplier partners. You will provide project updates to KFC US stakeholders and work closely with your coach on the NPD menu agenda.