Welcome to the unexpected delight of plant-based exploration! We’re the creators of a revolutionary cheese alternative that tastes, shreds, melts and stretches like traditional cheese. Today, as plant-based food grows in popularity, that spirit of innovation continues to inspire our team.

We believe in pioneering plant-based breakthroughs that delight people and planet. Our portfolio of great tasting foods provide an opportunity for everyone to gather around the table, whether you have food allergies, are flexitarian, vegan, vegetarian, or just plant-based curious!

We’re a team of food-loving Daiyans, and we’re always on the lookout for people who share our passion, our vision, and our ability to make each other smile.

Summary

The R&D Manager, Product Development will manage the strategic research and development activities for product development from concept approval to product launch to ensure exceptional quality is delivered to the end customer.  Includes efficient management of resources and strategic alignment of products to successfully create a winning complement of products.  This role actively collaborates with the Director, Advanced Research & Technology (ART) and ART Scientists to translate key product & capability technologies into amazing products.

Job Responsibilities

• Contribute to the strategic growth of the company through product development and technical success of innovative technologies for current products and product development 18+ months into the future.
• Participate in R&D strategic plans including prioritization and allocation of technical, team and financial resources. Identifies key technical hurdles and deliverables to ensure success.
• Supervise the work of a team of R&D scientists for product development. Evaluates progress and results obtained and implements changes to achieve objectives. Conduct performance reviews and provide input to all other team members’ performance reviews.
• Work with Project Leads to assess and prioritize key milestones and deliverables for projects. Identify project resource requirements.
• Conduct zero-based budgeting on all new and improvement projects. Authority to sign off on expense reports under $500.  Approve all vacation requests and other administrative functions for team members.
• Work with the Brand and Innovation team to map out projects and build a robust pipeline of projects. Contribute to Technical feasibility assessments of new products and renovations.
• Work with Maintenance, QA, and the Plant Manager for procurement of new equipment, services, and supplies for the commercial integration of products.
• Responsible for overseeing project management of product development, new processes, formulation, technological development, and scale up.
• Work closely with R&D Managers and cross-functional teams by providing technical leadership and influencing decision making.
• Provide project management oversights to ensure new projects are launched on budget and schedule, while working with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to review and communicate key milestones and deliverables.
• Supports the implementation of company programs to ensure the success of the Company.
• Carry out other duties as required.

Education & Experience

• At least four (5) years’ experience in project management and coordination
• Degree in Food Science or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in food processing.
• At least 5+ years of experience in managing product development.
• Thorough knowledge of R&D, engineering, and manufacturing.
• Prior experience in project management and personnel management.
• Strong analytical skills in applied research and commercial testing with experience in field research studies and product development trials are an asset.
• Strong R&D background in food science industry is a must.
• Demonstrated technical expertise research and development and proven accomplishments in leading a highly skilled R&D team.

Related Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of a range of sciences and their application to food
• Good business, analytical and numerical abilities
• Skills in project management and in-process development in the food and beverage industry
• Excellent people and resources planning skills.
• Strong leadership and motivational skills in a team environment.
• Ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated analytical, problem solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to prioritize under the pressure of tight deadlines.
• Ability to persuade and positively influence at all levels of the organization.
• Able to deal tactfully and efficiently with all enquiries.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong English written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to work independently and as a part of a team.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft applications including Outlook, Excel, Word, etc.

Salary & Benefits

• Base salary range is $90,000 – 110,000
• Competitive compensation
• Extended health benefits fully paid by Daiya for your family
• 3 weeks’ vacation
• Flex days
• Retirement savings matching program
• Flexible spending account
• Fun and creative environment
• Inspiring and innovative work
• Smart and passionate teams
• Making people and the planet a healthier place

At Daiya Foods, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment, one in which employees can bring their whole selves to work everyday.  We welcome and celebrate differences because we believe a multitude of perspectives fosters innovation and will help us achieve our vision.

Daiya Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and prohibits discrimination of any kind.  We are committed to building a representative workforce and encourage applications reflecting diversity of sex, sexual orientation, gender identify or expression, racialization or ancestry, disability, religion, marital or family status, age and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.  We endeavor to recruit, develop, and retain the best talent from a diverse candidate pool and truly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion among our team members is vital to our success as a company.  We trust that in applying for a role with us you value this as well!