Technical Applications Group Manager

Role Overview

• Lead delivery of product, process, packaging, and ingredient initiatives supporting Innovation & Renovation (I&R), cost optimization, and business maintenance
• Drive end-to-end execution of cross-functional technical projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring alignment to scope, timelines, and business objectives
• Partner with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Supply Chain to deliver compliant, manufacturable solutions and resolve risks and issues
• Provide technical leadership and support to manufacturing sites, including scale-up, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and quality
• Implement I&R strategies for supported categories, prioritizing resources and budgets to meet project and business needs
• Lead introduction of new products and processes into factories, including technology transfers, supplier/co-manufacturer support, and global initiative execution
• Ensure adherence to Nestlé standards, GMP, and regulatory requirements; support audits and drive resolution of compliance gaps
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing technical team; build capabilities in product and process mastership and drive team engagement and performance
• Enable knowledge transfer and act as a technical training and coaching resource to manufacturing teams, addressing root causes and improving operational capability
• Drive continuous improvement across products, processes, and tools to improve quality, speed, and cost efficiency while leveraging internal and external best practices

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or related technical field (advanced degree preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in CPG, food manufacturing, technical applications, or product development
• Experience leading cross-functional technical projects and delivering through stage-gate processes
• Prior people leadership or team management experience, preferred
• Strong knowledge of food manufacturing, ingredient/product design, and commercialization processes
• Working knowledge of GMP, HACCP, QMS, and applicable regulatory standards (e.g., CFR Title 21)
• Experience introducing new products/processes into manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with cross-functional operations across R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain; cross-market experience preferred
• Proficiency with enterprise systems/tools (e.g., SAP) preferred

Benefits

• performance-based incentives
• competitive total rewards package
• 401(k) with company match
• healthcare coverage
• benefits that support physical, financial, and emotional wellbeing