Project Manager, Customer R&D

About the role: 

Barry Callebaut is a global organization poised for growth; a company which has embraced the vision to delight its customers, while out-performing its competitors, a business which is committed to sustainability, has innovation in its DNA, is a leader in complex manufacturing and supply chain solutions and is focused on being a best-in-class employer. Barry Callebaut seeks diverse and passionate people who thrive in a dynamic environment, focused on continuous learning, living BC’s Values and of course loving chocolate.

Under the responsibility of the R&D Director, the Customer R&D Project Manager will be responsible for managing R&D projects and the development of new products. The Customer R&D Project Manager is linked to the relevant Salesperson(s) and their corresponding customers. The role will be responsible for translating customer requirements into projects and new products, resulting in growth in volumes and margins. The individual in this role will be an influential key technical contact and solution provider for the customer. Besides customer projects the Customer R&D can be also involved in internal strategic initiatives.

We are seeking a candidate who is technically strong in food chemistry and possesses excellent problem-solving skills. The candidate should bring solutions to customers and demonstrate exceptional organizational skills. They should be a clear and effective communicator, capable of engaging with both customers and internal stakeholders (Sales, Operations, Quality, etc.). The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and experienced in leading projects from start to finish. Experience in the chocolate or cocoa industry is a plus.

Key responsibilities include: 

•    Project Management: Manage new product development projects from theoretical recipe to lab prototype and industrial product for internal and external clients. Ensure full project follow-up and completion of necessary project documents, including recipe creation. 
•    Project Leadership: Coach and collaborate the relevant R&D product experts and technologists to produce lab samples and advance projects. Translate technical learnings and insights into commercial opportunities. Lead also customer projects for PDI or innovations with our Product Experts and Innovation people. 
•    Technical Support: Provide necessary technical support to vendors, customers, QA and operations when product-related problems occur. Advise the sales team on technical and application matters. Provide assistance to all departments as needed regarding technical issues related to confectionery product manufacturing. 
•    Product safety: Maintain product safety by adopting behaviors meeting the established requirements 
•    Customer Engagement: Participate in customer visits and plant trials as needed to support customer projects. 
•    Cross-Functional Collaboration: Actively participate in various projects of the Research and Development team, maintaining close interaction with Sales, Operations, Quality, Sourcing and cocoa R&D within the country or region. 
•    Customer Relations: Serve as the key technical contact for the customer, ensuring the development of internal and external customer relations and maintaining communication. 
•    Market Development: Provide technical support to existing and new customers, creating new market opportunities. 
•    Training: Contribute to training to customers or internal colleagues where applicable 
•    Project Documentation: Complete full project follow-up and necessary project documents, including recipe creation. 

About you:

●    Education: Bachelor's Degree in Food Technology Sciences, Food Engineering, or Food Science. Master's degree preferred. 
●    Experience: R&D development experience. Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience in the food industry, with knowledge of the confectionery sector being a plus. 
●    Language Proficiency: Fluent in the local country language and good knowledge of English. 
●    Personal Attributes: Solution driven, capable of working under pressure, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. 
●    Interpersonal Skills: Excellent teamwork, communication, and interpersonal relation skills. 
●    Analytical Abilities: Strong analytical mind, 
●    Flexibility: flexibility and willingness to travel as needed. 
●    Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills, including external customer communication. 
●    Software Knowledge: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, Google suite required. Knowledge of Salesforce and SAP would be an asset. 
●    Travel requirements: up to 30% of time

What you can expect from Barry Callebaut:

●    Salary Range of $100,000-120,000, based on experience and location, plus bonus and our comprehensive benefits package
●    Paid time off, plus generous holiday time 
●    Environment that welcomes workplace flexibility 
●    An atmosphere where diversity is embraced, and inclusivity is second nature. We call it #OneBC! Just ask our champions with the Americas Women’s Forum and the Racial Equality Forum!
●    Ability to grow personally and professionally within an organization that values development and internal career growth
●    Be part of our mission in making sustainability the norm through Forever Chocolate with priorities centered around prospering farmers, zero child labor, carbon and forest positive, and creating 100% sustainable ingredients in all of our products.