We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Director of Research & Development (R&D) for our Meat Snacks division in Chicago, Illinois.As the Director R&D - Meat Snacks , you will have a pivotal role in driving the growth and success of our $1 billion revenue segment. Reporting to the VP of R&D, you will lead a talented team of food scientists and engineers, spearheading cutting-edge research and development initiatives. Your strategic vision and technical expertise will be crucial in delivering breakthrough products that delight our consumers and strengthen our market leadership. This position requires exceptional cross-functional collaboration skills and ability to translate technical concepts into clear, actionable plans.What you'll do:
Lead and manage a team of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Drive the development and commercialization of new meat snack products, ensuring alignment with consumer trends, technical diligence, and business objectives
Oversee the entire R&D process, from concept to launch, ensuring high-quality and cost-effective solutions while leveraging portfolio management tools
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Quality, Operations, Procurement, and Sales to execute strategic initiatives
Stay abreast of industry trends, consumer preference, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements to maintain a competitive edge
Manage the Meat Snacks R&D budget and resources effectively to maximize efficiency and output
Ensure all R&D activities comply with food safety regulations and company policies
Build and nurture a high-performance team by identifying and recruiting top talent, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, and implementing effective team-building strategies
Shape and influence product design work, including new growth platforms, identifying and applying new technology, enhancing technical processes
What you'll need:
Bachelors Degree in Food Science, Science, Engineering, Chemistry or related field
10+ years experience in a leadership role at a large matrixed food manufacturing company
Experience in food product design, formulation, ingredient functionality and interaction, process design, product scale-up, plant testing and commercialization
Experience with food industry standards of quality and foods safety, and FDA regulations
Influence and collaborate with others to accomplish research goals
Ability to direct team activity, ensure successful planning and execution of initiatives. Product experience from inception through commercialization
Possess strong communication skills, including written updates, presenting to cross functional leads and senior leaders
Build strong relationships within R&D and across functions in order to drive decision making, problem-solving and strategy for your categories
Passion for food and designing products that delight our customers and consumers
We require applicants for this role to be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer sponsorship either now or in the future
Physical Requirements:
Exposure to manufacturing environments for periodic extended workdays including loud noise, excessive heat, cold, wet, and slippery conditions, food tasting and smells including all food allergens
Travel independently and as a responsible Conagra representative
You will typically be in the office Mondays - Thursdays with some flexibility. Fridays are usually remote. We offer relocation for this role.Our benefits include medical, dental, vision, 20 vacation days, 6 additional days off and 11 paid holidays. Check out our 401k plan too! Conagra will match 100% up to the first 6% of pay you save. We will also provide a 3% non-elective contribution to your account regardless of your participation (that's 9%) !#LI-Onsite#LI-MH1#LI-DirectorCompensation:Pay Range:$130,000-$193,000The annual salary listed above is the expected offering for this position. An employee’s actual annual salary will be based on but not limited to: location, relevant experience/level and skillset, while balancing internal Conagra employees’ equity. Conagra Brands will comply with applicable law regarding minimum salaries for exempt employees.Our Benefits:We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:
Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement
Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan
Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement
Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities
Our Company:At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions – within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye ®, Slim Jim® and Reddi-Wip®.Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.