Ferrara, a leading sugar confectioner in the United States, is seeking a Sr. Manager, R&D Process Engineering to join its team in Chicago.
About the Role
This individual will manage a team of engineers to develop and execute key strategic process engineering initiatives for the Global Sugar (confections) portfolio. Projects will be related to innovation, renovation, quality improvement, new technologies, network moves, margin management, among others.
Responsibilities
* Lead a team of 3 to 5 engineers to execute process development activities for R&D initiatives: creating test plans, running pilot and full-scale trials, performing data analysis, generating process specifications & process manuals, and providing technical expertise/troubleshooting guidance.
* Identify and evaluate processing technologies and provide technical solutions to support the creation and execution of the 3-year and 5+-year strategic pipelines.
* Create new opportunities for enhanced manufacturing capabilities by modifying complex processes that expand product formats and improve efficiencies.
* Partner with Marketing, Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Packaging functions, etc. toward successful planning, scale up, and execution of all initiatives.
* Build technical expertise in the sugar category by networking with subject matter experts within the company and externally.
Requirements
* Strong technical and interpersonal coaching and/or mentoring skills.
* Good understanding/appreciation of the broader business environment and application of technical and commercial knowledge during project execution.
* Very strong interpersonal skills with ability to influence with integrity through persuasive communication to win support at more senior levels within R&D, Operations and Supply Chain, and to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
* Mastery of certain processing technologies related to food/pharma/bio product manufacturing.
Preferred Qualifications
* B.S. in Food Process Engineering, Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or related field.
* M.S., P.E. or PhD preferred.
* Minimum 7-10 years' experience in a CPG R&D or Manufacturing Role, confectionery experience a plus.
About Ferrara
Ferrara is a privately held company with its global headquarters in Chicago and an operational network of more than 27 locations in North America, Brazil, and China. We are committed to diversity of thought, experience, and people and offer comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Learn more about our benefits and culture at Ferrara Benefits Resource Center .