Job Description

ROLE: Innovation & Development Manager

REPORTS TO: SVP Dairy

LOCATION: Delta and Port Coquitlam, BC

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Innovation & Development Manager to lead innovation initiatives across our production facilities and co-pack partners. This newly created role will drive product development, process improvement and regulatory compliance, while collaborating closely with marketing, quality, sales and operations teams. You will play a key role in shaping the future of our brands: Rolling Meadow, Organic Meadow, Happy Planet, Happy Planet Creamery and a2 Milk™

Opportunities

This is an exciting time for the Dairy Team as we continue to grow and expand. Your challenge will be to develop innovative new products across our portfolio and contribute to strategic product planning, idea generation and screening. This role offers the opportunity to bring creative ideas to life and make a tangible impact on our business.

Here Is Who You Are…

Drive & Motivation

• You are a collaborative leader who thrives in dynamic environments
• You are passionate about healthy living and aligned with our brand values
• You are naturally curious and energized by innovation
• You are comfortable in a hands-on role within a growing organization

Character & Abilities

• You are skilled in planning, developing and executing projects
• You have a strong analytical and detail-oriented mindset
• You are adaptable and resilient when facing challenges
• You are an effective communicator and team collaborator

Knowledge & Skills

• You have a deep understanding of product lifecycle and commercialization
• You have expertise in HACCP, GFSI Schemes (SQF, BRC, or ISO), SOPs, SSOPs, and GMPs applicable to food safety principles
• You have experience working with CFIA and regulatory framework
• You are proficient in managing innovation pipelines and demonstrate strong prioritization, analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• You have experience with innovation pipeline management and prioritization

Experience

• You have a Masters degree in Food Science, Dairy Technology or related field
• You have 7 years’ experience in dairy product development or innovation, working in a similar capacity
• Proficient in scaling benchtop prototypes to commercial production, bridging innovation and manufacturing to execute successful product launches

Things you will do…

• Lead the development of innovative, market-leading products
• Create and execute annual innovation plans
• Manage new product development and reformulation projects
• Conduct innovation & trend analysis
• Oversee product and process development to meet quality and cost targets
• Maintain process parameters, product specifications and documentation
• Collaborate with Consumer Experience and Quality teams on complaint resolution
• Manages organic & kosher certification

Other …

• This position requires some travel and schedule flexibility
• Attendance at industry events and trade shows as needed