R&D Manager, Global Program Management

Key Skills

Java Programming, Python Programming, SAP, SQL

Job Description

• This role is responsible for maximizing system adoption and minimizing or mitigating any disruption to Region AOPs while implementing and effectively delivering CAST 1.0 across Europe, AMESA, and APAC.
• The purpose is to provide a strong safety to our Region teams very specifically during the learning curve period estimated to be surpassed within the first 90 days of operation in the system
• This role has technical and executional complexity given the state of fragmented processes in R&D and the multi-stakeholder engagement (LG1 or above) necessary to drive alignment and action. It will requirea deep CAST SAP S4 HANA expertise and intense change management skillset to ensure system and business process adoption at a business unit level
• The full workstream budget is $16.9 million this year and anticipated to be ~$9MM in 2023. It is the #1 digital priority for R&D goals 2021 – 2023. This role will be specifically responsible to handle $0.5MM in resources and specifications management assets.
• The scope of this role will be global across R&D Product Development, Process Engineering, Packaging, Regulatory, Food Safety, Supply Quality, Quality Assurance, SDSA, as well as cross functional partners: PGT, SC, QC, DMO, GP
• The role will have two contractors reporting onto the L10 individual so that the Region can receive adequate support during deployment.
• Lead the technical support to operational excellence and Region AOP spec writing teams during deployments and hypercare of CAST SAP Specification System. Ensure the Region is able to deliver in all AOP commitments by elevating the operational capability of spec writing teams by working with regional leaders, TDC and Supply Chain partners and pivoting to address in the most efficient way possible the learning curve of operating in SAP.
• Collaborate with CAST Global Template Product Manager, Product Owners and IT on design, implementation and identification of enhancement essential for business operations leveraging SAP out-of-the-box system as much as possible
• Act as an extension of the Region spec writing team to ensure flawless execution of CAPEX commitments by assisting on the validation of local business processes with global and aiding development of supplemental training materials necessary to clarify new Ways of Working across the regions.
• Communicate effectively with CAST hypercare teams and Region the teams on required actions, and reviews. To support a smooth transition, plan our of hypercare and into sustain
• Prioritize the work of two Agile expert spec writers (SpecSquad) to assist any unanticipated peaks of spec management work due to unforeseen situations (i.e. Regulation changes)
• Maintain an understanding of the End-to-End relationship from ingredients specs to finished products that include localization to become eventually the true Global spec management SME for R&D
• COVID-19 vaccination is a condition of employment for this role. Please note that all such company vaccine requirements provide the opportunity to request an approved accommodation or exemption under applicable law.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Education/Certifications: BS, MS or PhD. Degree in Food Science or Engineering
• Work Experience: 10 years with BS, 7 years with MS or 5 years with PhD in CPG industry
• Deep technical understanding and experience in at least one platform (Foods, Grains, F&V, Dairy, Sport, Beverages)
• Ability to effectively interact with senior leaders across R&D and other functions
• Understanding of IT/system development process desired
• Work experience in SAP or Product Vision as a Product Developer
• Understanding of Agile methodology desired
• Provides excellent customer service and display excellent organizational and follow-up skills.
• Knowledgeable in R&D business processes for spec development globally
• Self-motivating with very high drive for results
• Demonstrates ability to problem solve, with sound judgment and decision making
• Strong attention to detail and organization
• Deep technical and business knowledge of SAP S4 HANA and R&D business processes globally (across 5 sectors) to navigate throught he most complex and matrix project in R&D under time constraints and the largest R&D budget pressure.
• Ability to sustain focus and deliver results while bring others with you to effectively influence beyond level (drives the right results)
• Sophisticated Strategist and Conceptual Thinker: Creative problem solver and out-of-the-box thinker that considers issues from multiple and differing perspectives, and creates novel recommendations informed by data and trend to advance the programs
• Embraces challenges and risks: Works effectively in a matrix and evolving agenda with a degree of uncertainty, ambiguity and complexity through effective governance and follow-up processes to manage challenges and risk.
• Demonstrates global acumen: Demonstrates ability to work cross-functionally to a drive complex agenda with cross-functional partners
• Collaborates beyond boundaries: Ability to anticipate issues, manage project risks while staying focused on execution.
• Agility on assessment of business requirements to prioritize tasks and resources – invest in the right short-term priorities with line of sight for longer term maximization of system adoption
• The role must work to overcome the SAP learning curve and gain support from SMEs (Global and Regional) and Sr. stakeholders
• The role will need to remain highly flexible t handle unforeseen volume of works due to regulation or business continutity needs