Senior Product Development Specialist/Project Management Flex (TAG)

Nestlé - Arlington, VA

Full-time - Mid Level

Arlington, VA

Food Manufacturing

About the position

The Senior Product Development Specialist/Project Management Flex role at Nestlé involves leading the Technical Application Group (TAG) to execute the TAG Strategy and manage Innovation & Renovation (I&R) projects. The position requires a strong focus on project management, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and a commitment to operational excellence to drive impactful results in product development and project execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead the alignment of a charter to the TAG strategy and engage key stakeholders in decision making.
• Initiate, plan, execute, monitor, control, and close projects with key stakeholders.
• Prevent roadblocks and generate risk mitigation plans.
• Build and manage project schedules, track activities, and communicate status reports.
• Ensure consistent application and continuous improvement of Nestlé's I&R processes and tools.
• Meet established key performance indicators (KPIs) and program metrics.
• Identify and implement process improvements considering ecosystem impacts.
• Lead discussions and communicate project status with senior leadership.
• Manage complex projects to deliver innovation and renovation portfolios.
• Collaborate with Marketing to translate consumer insights into project pipelines.
• Train and coach team members to contribute to the success of TAG.
• Implement I&R strategy for supported product categories and collaborate with global networks.
• Introduce new products, packaging, and processes within factories and external manufacturers.
• Ensure adherence to product/packaging/process standards and compliance with regulations.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to facilitate professional development.
• Develop expertise in product/packaging/process mastership and guide Operations for SOPs.

Requirements

• A BS or MS degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering or related field or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years experience in project management or product development.
• 7+ years of cross-functional experience preferred in areas such as Engineering, Operations, or Marketing.
• PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Leadership and people development skills.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and teams concurrently.
• Effective collaboration and influence at all organizational levels.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical skills to identify connections between data and situations.
• Developed change management skills.

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Inclusive workplace culture that values diversity.
• Support for veterans and individuals with disabilities.