Senior Manager, Product Development, Alcohol Ready To Drink

$120,000 - $149,000/Yr

The Coca-Cola Company - Atlanta, GA

Full-time - Senior

Atlanta, GA

Beverage and Tobacco Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Senior Manager, Product Development for Alcohol Ready To Drink (aRTD) at The Coca-Cola Company is responsible for leading a program of projects aimed at enhancing and developing new beverages within the North American market. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and collaboration skills to drive innovation and align product strategies with business goals. The position demands adaptability in a fast-paced environment and involves working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product development and market introduction.

Responsibilities

• Work with legal, supply chain, regulatory affairs, quality, global SMEs, and marketing teams to oversee product enhancements and innovations.
• Contribute to product portfolio strategy with global and Red Tree Beverages teams, influencing decisions and aligning projects with category strategy while ensuring quality, timing, and budget targets.
• Develop and supervise lab-scale prototypes, conduct sensory tests, and lead pilot-scale productions using statistical methods and digital tools.
• Report project outcomes and insights effectively, provide technical recommendations, and present program outcomes to senior leaders.
• Possess deep knowledge of Coca-Cola's system from bottling operations to global supply chains, translating trends into compelling product propositions.
• Incorporate sustainability principles and digital tools early in development to map impacts, manage risks, and unlock future opportunities.
• Stay informed about emerging risks, new technologies, competitor strategies, and market trends, using digital tools for insights and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• At least 8 years successful product development experience in the beverages industry or 4-6 years in the food industry.
• Bachelor's, Master's, or Post-Graduate degree in food science, chemistry, or related field.
• Fluent in English, with proficiency in an additional language preferred.
• Willing to travel up to 20% annually.
• Experience in the alcohol industry is desirable.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong knowledge of beverage development, ingredient knowledge, and industry standards.
• Advanced digital skills to employ data analytics, AI, and digital prototyping in innovation.
• Commitment to sustainability and familiarity with science-based targets for eco-design and supply chain.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and experimental design.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $120,000 - $149,000
• Inclusive company culture
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development