Responsibilities Include, but are not limited to:
- Lead product development across multiple food categories, delivering innovation and renovation in partnership with 3PL contract manufacturers.
- Guide cross-functional teams using project management tools to ensure on-time execution from ideation through commercialization.
- Attend and approve pilot trials and process validations with co-packers to meet quality, cost, and launch objectives.
- Maintain and evolve R&D systems, including formula repositories, specifications, retain samples, and process documentation.
- Build and manage relationships with co-packers, external partners, and suppliers to scale product and process innovations.
- Ensure adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) across all contract manufacturing locations.
- Lead supplier verification programs and conduct audits to ensure ingredient and packaging supplier compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
- Encourage or require third-party food safety certifications (e.g., SQF, BRCGS) for all contract manufacturers.
Regulatory Compliance (Human & Pet Foods)
- Ensure full compliance with FDA regulations for acidified foods (21 CFR 108 & 114), including process filings, acidification controls, and pH validation.
- Work with Quality to meet FDA's Current Good Manufacturing Practices (21 CFR 117) under FSMA, including review of Copacker Food Safety Plans, hazard analyses, and preventive controls.
- Ensure pet products comply with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, including exclusive use of GRAS or FDA/AAFCO-approved ingredients.
- Oversee copacker compliance with state registration requirements for both human and pet foods.
- Ensure FDA and AAFCO label compliance for both human and pet products, including Nutrition Facts, ingredient statements, allergen declarations, and marketing claims.
- Verify all packaging materials meet FDA food-contact regulations (21 CFR 174–186) and prevent adulteration.
- Partner with Quality to maintain robust traceability, recall procedures, and batch recordkeeping systems for full compliance and product accountability.
- Collaborate with Legal and Regulatory teams to assess and manage risks related to ingredients, claims, and new processes.
Strategic & Cross-Functional Leadership
- Represent R&D in strategic forums and cross-functional decision-making, offering technical leadership and fact-based recommendations.
- Support quality and food safety standards in partnership with the Sr. Director of Quality.
- Oversee and manage the R&D operating budget.
Skills and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in food science or related field; master's degree preferred.
- 10–15 years of food & beverage product development experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
- Proven expertise in Food Safety by Design and risk mitigation during product development.
- Deep familiarity with U.S. FDA regulations for acidified foods (21 CFR 108 & 114) is required.
- Demonstrated ability to translate consumer insights into successful food products.
- Strong leadership and communication skills; ability to influence across all levels and disciplines.
- Hands-on experience with bench work, pilot trials, and commercialization.
- Strong sensory and culinary capabilities; passion for food quality and innovation.
Position Requirements
- Consumer-Centric: Food quality is paramount. Marketing reflects the consumer's perspective.
- Speed to Market: The organization values rapid progress. Failure is an opportunity for quick iteration or adjustment. Major decisions are made within 48 hours rather than several weeks.
- Simplicity: Adhere to a one-page rule for concise communication. Ensure initial discussion before documentation. The focus is brand and category strategies. Prioritize elements we can control.
- Accountability: We take responsibility for results. Meetings begin with a purpose and end with clear next steps. Everyone actively participates at Newman's Own—no passive observers.
- Professional and Organizational Pride: We take pride in quality work and always stay committed to excellence. We're connected & invested in our purpose of giving 100% of our profits to help children in need.
Travel
Willingness to travel up to 25%. Occasional local day travel as needed. This is an on-site position that requires working from the Westport, CT office up to 4 days per week.
Seniority level
Employment type
Job function
- Supply Chain and Product Management
Industries
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