Research and Development Chef / Scientist
Lead team in the development of a robust pipeline of known and new innovative products and platforms for pizza and bakery opportunities that our plant is capable of and that meet the needs of our prospective customers as well as the financial objectives of our company. Work strategically with our Sales and manufacturing team in developing and executing on products that deliver new innovations to prospective customers.

Day to Day Accountabilities:
This position will report directly to the CEO and will lead the research and development for our company and is responsible for the development of new items and product platforms. Essential duties include:

• Researches and identifies food trends relevant to our target consumers and leads team in applying knowledge to new products and innovations.
• Collaborates with Sales and Manufacturing in building a robust test calendar
• Presents new items and how they support private label strategy at meetings
• Works with Manufacturing team in the testing and approval of new ingredients or operational processes.
• Reviews and approves product specifications and specification manuals
• Leads team in seeking out new technologies or ingredients for innovation
• Work with Sales to plan and execute presentations to customers and to define development projects.
• Provide information needed to Costing
• Provide information needed to Regulatory Affairs for labeling and documentation
• Provide Operations and QA with documentation and information for formulation scale-ups
• Oversee the management and modification of existing products and work with the EVP of Private Label Sales in developing new products
• Create, update, and maintain nutritional and ingredient labeling
• Assist EVP Private Label Sales with research of current consumer markets and latest technologies to develop new product concepts
• Work with the Director of Supply Chain Management to select raw materials and other ingredients from suppliers
• Analyze product costs based on raw materials and manufacturing costs to ensure profitable products
• Provide weekly updates to Executive team on all facets of all projects ongoing

Education/Experience:

• 6-8 years’ experience in R&D
• Experience with working both independently and with a team
• Experience with food manufacturing
• Experience with USDA and CFIA
• Prior baking and pizza experience
• Culinary or Food Science Degree preferred
• Experience with Gluten Free and Organic and like products
• Knowledgeable in food safety and food safety regulations (GMP and HACCP), raw materials, food regulations, sanitation and production processes
• Knowledge and experience in the natural foods industry highly desirable

Key Competencies:

• Planning
• Functional / Technical
• Managing and Measuring Work
• Organizational Agility
• Dealing with Ambiguity
• Good Oral and written communication skills
• Prioritizing and time management
• Ability to multi task and manage multiple projects through effective organization, oversight, and hands-on management
• Effective interpersonal skills with employees at all levels of the organization
• Innate curiosity and creativity in food science and new product development