PLM Architect

Key Responsibilities

R&D Process Optimization

• Translate complex R&D requirements (formulation, raw material management, compliance, and specification management) into functional PLM system designs.
• Streamline product data inheritance from initial bench-top prototyping through to commercialization and scale-up.
• Standardize raw material and packaging specifications to ensure global consistency and reuse across multiple brands.

System Architecture & Implementation

• Lead end-to-end PLM implementations, upgrades, or migrations specifically tailored to CPG R&D workflows.
• Design integration strategies linking PLM with adjacent systems like ERP (e.g., SAP S/4HANA), LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems), CAD, and Regulatory Databases.
• Configure and customize PLM modules for recipe management, labelling, and trial management.

Strategic Advisory & Governance

• Define the long-term PLM roadmap for the R&D division, aligning digital tools with corporate sustainability and innovation goals.
• Establish robust data governance policies to maintain the integrity of intellectual property, allergen tracking, and compliance data.
• Partner with cross-functional leadership in Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless data handoffs.

Change Management & Adoption

• Conduct workshops and training sessions for scientists, packaging engineers, and regulatory specialists to drive user adoption.
• Create comprehensive documentation, including business blueprints, functional specifications, and user manuals.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Experience & Education

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Food Science, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Experience: 7+ years of experience in PLM consulting or IT business analysis, with at least 4+ years specifically focused on CPG R&D environments (Food & Beverage, ).
• Proven Track Record: At least 2 full-lifecycle PLM implementations in a senior or lead capacity.

Technical Expertise

• PLM Platforms: Deep expertise in one or more major CPG-focused PLM platforms: SAP PLM (RD&E / Specification Management), Oracle Agile PLM for Process, Siemens Teamcenter, Infor Optiva, or Selerant Devex.
• CPG Process Knowledge: Strong understanding of recipe/formula management, nutritional calculations, ingredient declarations, substance restrictions, and allergen tracking.
• Regulatory Awareness: Familiarity with global compliance frameworks (e.g., FDA, EFSA, REACH) and how they integrate into PLM workflows.

Soft Skills

• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to speak both "scientist" and "developer" languages.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution capabilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Agile/Scrum methodologies in a project delivery environment.
• Knowledge of sustainability metrics tracking (e.g., carbon footprint, recyclable packaging data) within PLM.