Manager, Product Innovation - Sensory Science - Cacao Coating & Filling

Global sensory science is responsible for leading sensory science capabilities for cacao coating, filling, and beverage globally. This role will manage sensory activities in collaboration with cross-functional teams including CITS, Marketing, and Consumer Insights, and will play a key role in guiding global innovation projects. The role reports to the Director, Product Innovation, Global Project.

Key Responsibilities

Lead sensory capability building on cacao coating, filling & beverage (40%)

● Establish baseline sensory and capability building across cacao coating, filling & beverage

● Promote sensory science as strategic enablers of innovation

● Develop sensory digitalization and sensory instrumental linkages

Manage Sensory Projects (40%)

● Partner with global marketing, consumer insight and CITS to define sensory targets

● Participate in project meetings and guide sensory plans

● Conduct and interpret sensory results for global innovation projects

● Study flavor science in cocoa powder and cacao coating

Panel management and training (20%)

● Recruit, train, and maintain internal sensory panel

● Ensure accuracy and consistency of sensory results

● Foster strong relationship with sensory vendors

Requirements

● PhD degree level in a Science or Engineering discipline, or equivalent, preferably in Food Science & Technology

● Minimal 8 years of experience in sensory and consumer research, preferably in food CPG confectionery or beverage

● Fluent in English. A second language is a plus.

● Strong knowledge of sensory methodologies and statistical analysis

● Good business acumen in markets across the globe, or minimum in a specific region (AMEA, WEU, CEE, NAM, LATAM).

● Good understanding of consumer and customer centric design of product innovation in a B2B business environment. Experience in Food CPG or Retailer product innovation is a bonus

Leadership Competencies

● Consumer & customer centric, focus on delivery of best solution (client-centric & delivery focused)

● Communicate with transparency & empathy, prefer open team spirit (inspirational)

● Good at collaboration and partnership, within the organization and outside of the organization (agile & entrepreneurial)

● Be able to take an educated risk, future forwarded mindset, open to new ways of thinking (agile & entrepreneurial)

● Be genuine and authentic, act with integrity and respect (genuine & trustworthy)