Director R&D Protein

Summary: Leads GFUS R&D implementation of technical experience, formula security, laboratory equipment, process, and talent management programs to support the Protein Processor Segment and Protein product category business strategy within retail. Directs R&D activities by performing the following duties personally, through a designate, or through reporting team members.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Functions as a team leader for the development and execution of key technical strategies and activities that support the overall Griffith Foods Protein & Retail Segments and business strategy.
• Applies scientific and engineering principles in research, development, production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and waste reduction.
• Collaborates with Supply Chain to link product formulation activities to commercial fulfillment efficiencies.
• Leads production of safe and regulatory compliant food products. USDA understanding is necessary; export experience is an advantage.
• Aligns R&D & regulatory strategies.
• Collaborates cross functionally with Sales, Marketing, Sensory, and Culinary peers to assign, manage, and prioritize projects & accounts.
• Identifies and supports implementation of Innovation technologies that support the long-term strategy of the organization.
• Defines and implements talent management program for the Protein & Retail R&D teams in multiple locations.
• Establishes goals, appraises performance, recommends training, and provides input into final review for all direct reports. Coaches staff on job performance and career planning.
• Communicates progress of all products under development. Leverages methods and procedures for monitoring project success, such as metrics, resource investment and expenditures, research findings, progress reports, and staff conferences.
• Represents Griffith Foods R&D in professional business relationships with GFUS client and supplier base, academia, government, and corporations in the food industry.
• Responsible for maintaining and enhancing the security of all information regarding product formulas and related confidential information.
• Directs reviews and audits to provides regular reports and recommendations to management regarding formula security performance.
• Implements contingency plans for coverage of key R&D roles if an associate is unable to perform their assigned duties.

Qualifications:

• MS in Food Science or Meat Science, Food Technology, Food Chemistry, Food engineering or related technical degree.
• 12-20 years of Research & Development experience within the meat industry.
• Experience with retail or foodservice manufacturer and extensive experience in working directly with customers and manufacturing facilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong leadership qualities.
• Strong analytics, grammar and writing skills.
• Demonstrated exceptional project management skills/experience.
• Must be organized and detail oriented with an ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Travel up to 25%.

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