Sensory Manager
Ferrara Pan Candy Co., Inc.

Job Info

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Chicago

Job Location: Chicago

Want to make an impact?

Reporting to the Sr. Director of R&D, this individual will lead and manage the sensory and consumer science department within InTech. Projects will be related to renovation, innovation, quality improvement, new technologies, network moves, margin management, etc. The Sensory and Consumer Science Manager will be responsible for leading and influencing strategic and tactical initiatives on sensory, along with early consumer product guidance research, and provide recommended testing and design for execution of testing.

Ways you will make a difference

• Lead the sensory lab design, staffing, budget management, and organization of department work.
• Manage department sensory scientist and technicians.
• Develop internal and external sensory testing programs to support R&D innovation and renovation initiatives
• Guide consumer insights team and product developers on consumer guidance testing designs and test execution.
• Collaborate with project teams on all consumer science and sensory needs.
• Lead the design, plan, execution, and data analysis for consumer sensory tests, and synthesize recommendations to provide to the projects teams on next steps.
• Complete statistical analysis and generate conclusions and recommendations to provide to product developers and project teams.
• Continuously improve department efficiency, expand and implement new sensory research methodologies.
• Provide sensory training to internal panelists and R&D employees.
• Lead the recruitment and training of sensory panels.

• Understands and demonstrates the Company's core values.
• Conducts assigned work in a safe manner and adheres to Ferrara safety methods.

Skills that will make you successful

• Preferred M.S. in Sensory, or other certifications.
• Understanding/appreciation of the broader business environment and application of technical and commercial knowledge during project execution.
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to influence with integrity through persuasive communication to win support at more senior levels within R&D, Marketing, and Consumer Insights.

• Technical, analytical, and communication skills; ability to interpret data and distil into useful and actionable information.
• Mastery of sensory test methodology and statistical data analysis.
• Self-starter, self-motivating: able to balance competing priorities without losing momentum and manage uncertainty and complexity in fast evolving CPG environments.
• Quickly analyze complex problems to find actionable pragmatic solutions and constructive action plan.
• Able to inspire passion and creativity around shared goals with colleagues, and support an environment of achievement, recognition, and celebration.
• Highly numerate and computer literate (Microsoft Office), statistical software experience required.
• Demonstrated ability to meet critical deadlines.
• Previous experience dealing with multiple equipment vendors and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Experiences that will support your success

• B.S. in Food Science or Related Required.
• M.S. in Sensory or Food Science is strongly encouraged.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in sensory and consumer research, preferable in the food industry.
• This role is based in the Chicagoland area.
• Valid driving license is required.
• Availability to travel < 25%.

This job has expired.