Research and Development Project Manager

Contenuto del lavoro

R&D Project Manager

Job Description:

As an R&D Project Manager, you will be the central figure of our R&D team, playing a crucial role in the development and improvement of recipes and products, primarily focused on chocolate, pastry, and beverages such as infusions. You will work closely with our Artistic Director and Founder, the Head of R&D, our artisans, and the marketing department to ensure the visual, taste, quality, and innovative excellence of our products while providing operational and functional support in managing related projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and coordinate research and development projects from concept to production in collaboration with chocolatiers, pastry chefs, baristas, product managers, the marketing department, and partners: establish project structures and operational guidelines, assess development risks, monitor raw material costs, production timelines, train stakeholders, validate parameters with key teams before production, oversee initial productions, and ensure quality and costs are in line with defined expectations.
• Provide regular reports on the progress and outcomes of product development initiatives within the R&D team.
• Design and optimize product recipes by incorporating innovative ingredients and methodologies while adhering to rigorous standards of quality and sustainability.
• Propose innovative solutions based on a scientific understanding of food production and preservation processes to both local and international R&D teams.
• Document and communicate the final composition of new product prototypes or modifications of existing products to the marketing, quality, and production departments.
• Provide detailed briefings on the unique specifics and origins of selected products, in coordination with the quality and regulatory expert, to assess labeling impacts and optimize product communication.
• Utilize your knowledge of chocolate, dietary considerations, food technology, and the briefings from Marketing and R&D to ensure the product’s sensory identity experienced in the workshop is reflected in the final boutique offering.
• Evaluate the qualitative and quantitative attributes of products, conduct sensory analyses, and use analytical tools to optimize recipes.
• Stay informed about innovative sector developments to ensure our products are always healthier and indulgent.
• Apply advanced project management and administrative skills to support the R&D team’s creative process while minimizing operational distractions.
• Anticipate and address regulatory, sourcing, and logistical considerations in food production, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations and market demands.

Candidate Profile:

• A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field with a specialization in R&D.
• Significant experience in a similar role, preferably within the chocolate or food industry.
• Expertise in food technology, sensory analysis, project management, and knowledge of chocolate production processes.
• Ability to quickly adapt to changes and work in an agile manner to meet market and consumer needs.
• Fluency in both French and English (spoken and written).
• Curious, innovative, proactive, rigorous, with a strong team spirit and excellent communication skills.
• Strong anticipation skills regarding regulatory changes, sourcing challenges, and market trends—acting as a true "conductor" coordinating all project elements for success.