Innovation Associate

This role is with a pet food brand.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

● Lead all project phases, including initiation, planning, execution, and launch across Stage Gate process

● Lead communication with cross-functional team members through completion of the project

● Make decisions based on information and input in a timely manner

● Ensure milestones are successfully met by leading day-to-day activities and providing project oversight

● Work collaboratively with departments that impact projects

● Tailor processes to meet the needs of individual projects and drive innovation best practices

● Assess, manage, resolve and escalate (if necessary) risks and issues

REPORTS TO:

● Innovation Senior Manager

LOCATION:

● Bedminster, NJ OR Bethlehem, PA (2-3x/week)

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS:

● Bachelor's degree in relevant field, or equivalent demonstrated work experience

● 3 plus years professional experience in related area

● CPG, Food and/or Pet experience preferred

● Experience with successful management and ownership of cross-functional projects

● Demonstrated success in bringing innovation projects to market

● Strong team leadership skills with ability to delegate responsibility to all levels of the project team and

hold team accountable for deliverables

● Ability to effectively communicate with multiple functions and interface with all levels of the organization

● Commitment to being accountable for results

● Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and facilitation skills

● Ability to think independently and make decisions

● Strong interpersonal skills and team-player mentality, with a collaborative work approach

● Proven track record of building relationships both internally and externally

● Strong focus on customer service and end consumer experience

● Passion and pride in work, with drive to help organization achieve its mission and goals