Senior Product Development Project Manager

Van Drunen Farms - Momence, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Momence, IL

Food Manufacturing

About the position

As a Product Development Project Manager at Van Drunen Family of Companies, you will lead projects that are crucial for the company's growth and strategic goals through the development of new applications, platforms, and products. This role involves both collaborative and independent work, addressing customer challenges and opportunities while facilitating the development process from concept to launch.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects to develop new applications, platforms, and products.
• Facilitate the development of new applications and provide technical problem-solving expertise.
• Manage both short-term and long-term projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with company goals.
• Demonstrate expertise in ingredients and product formulations, including flavor and sensory science.
• Apply knowledge to the concept-to-launch development cycle, including sales consultation and project scoping.
• Serve as a consultative ingredient and food science expert, optimizing formulas for nutrition and processing attributes.
• Troubleshoot product design or ingredient-related production issues and drive to root cause.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with co-manufacturers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Independently manage technical projects with cross-functional teams against defined timelines and budgets.
• Develop written reports and presentations for various stakeholders, ensuring clear communication.

Requirements

• 5-10 years of experience in the food manufacturing and processing industry, with an emphasis in Food Science.
• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related discipline; advanced degree preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite.
• Strong listening, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities.
• Problem-solving skills and good judgment.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Family-friendly work environment
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Opportunities for professional growth and development