Company Description

Since 1940, Dairy Queen® has been one of the world’s best known and loved brands. Based in Minneapolis, MN, International Dairy Queen Inc., (IDQ), is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation. As a leading franchisor, there are more than 7,000 independently owned and operated restaurants in the U.S., Canada and more than 20 countries around the world. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire) which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire.

Here at IDQ, we create extraordinary Fan experiences every day and we do this through our commitment to hiring and retaining only the best in class talent. We firmly believe that our employees are the catalyst to the success of the company where their initiative, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit are recognized and rewarded. We're looking for motivated, passionate and dedicated individuals with an inherent need and ambition to go after bigger challenges.

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity available for a Product Development Manager supporting our Latin America & Carribean region.  This individual contributor role manages the new product development process and ingredient approval processes and assists FSQR (Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory) with vendor approvals.  Ensures new products and product revisions meet Dairy Queen’s high-quality standards. 

The product development manager must have excellent project management, time management, reporting, analytical and problem-solving skills.  Using these skills, this position works as a versatile and efficient team player in a fast-paced and collaborative franchisee environment. In addition, this role will work closely with the LA&C General Manager, Director – Marketing and Director – Supply Chain to deliver sales growth opportunities within the region.

The candidate will work closely with the Product Development team to develop new products and to improve core products. The manager works closely with marketing, supply chain and other team members to determine the most profitable course for IDQ and its franchisees for existing and new products. 

Key Accountabilities Include:

Product DevelopmentSupports category growth and marketing calendar execution within the LA&C Region. Collaborates with a cross functional DQ and Franchisee teams, manages components of the new product development process that aligns with our Menu Vision and country marketing calendar as defined by the LA&C team.  Embraces the implementation, utilization and reporting of the DEDVIM (Define, Explore, Develop, Validate, Implement, Measure) Innovation Process through the various project and timeline management stages to facilitate product development.Manages the development of new Core and LTO Menu items and approvals for new and approved vendors, ingredients and for menu item approvals as assigned.  Manages approvals of ingredients and preps for franchisee-developed new products based on their calendar launch periods.  Performs bench top, in-restaurant, and desk-based roles related to the new product process.Performs advanced creative and technical product development assignments within the food/treat category.  Identifies product and procedural problems and lead initiatives to find solutions to problems by applying advanced technical knowledge and skill.  Analyzes product and procedural issues and take initiative to recommend solutions to resolve problems by applying technical knowledge. Creates and approves meaningful ingredient specifications, final product specifications and product preparation documents.  Uses food safety knowledge toPartner with FSQR teammates to ensure products are safe for consumers.  Support on-going quality testing for existing local products.  Act as a liaison between FSQR and local vendors on quality concerns when necessary.Within a collaborative framework with the Director – Marketing and International Consumer Insights Manager, analyzes consumer and operator feedback and market research information to recommend new products and improvements to products or processes. Facilitates internal/external ideation and product exploration sessions with DQ Marketing and Franchisee Teams for the treat and food product categories. Presents product ideas to the brand marketing team on an as needed basis in accordance with project timelines. Coordinates and conducts local sensory evaluations and location tests to gather real time feedback for product optimization before launch.Proactively troubleshoots manufacturing plant procedures, for existing and new products. Actively engages with local suppliers and industry professionals to strengthen partnerships, diversify supplier options, and stay abreast of market trends.Helps drive proactive development and experimentation of LTO products, ensuring alignment with local market trends and consumer preferences, leveraging a deep understanding of local consumer behavior and cultural nuances within the LA&C region.Project ManagementProactively contributes in updating and tracking of on-going projects with peers on the LA&C team and Franchisees using RACI and other Project Trackers. Takes active ownership in regional product development initiatives, ensuring alignment with regional business objectives and efficient cross-functional collaboration to ensure meeting and managing deadlines for deliverables.Effectively communicates thoughts and ideas, both written and oral, in a diverse multi-level environment (low, mid, top-level management within IDQ; Franchisees and Vendors).  Makes recommendations to key stakeholders, including executives and franchisees.Proactively directs and manages suppliers and works closely with PD to develop new ingredients and products.Collaboration and TeamworkBuilds and maintains cooperative working relationships internally and externally. Effectively communicates PD’s position in meetings and in informal interactions with colleagues and franchisees.Provides strategic thought leadership and contributes by identifying key opportunities related to product development and other cross-functional activities.Actively participates in MFAC, DQ International and ADQ Corporate meetings.

Qualifications

Experience:

Minimum undergraduate degree in food science, chemistry or related field with 5-8 years of Product Development/Project Management experience with a multinational QSR; CPG or Food Manufacturer. QSR experience for an international brand preferred.  

Possesses cross-functional managerial experience within a diverse multi-cultural team.  Proven track record working in LA&C with understanding of the market and culture(s).  Working knowledge of food chemistry with a functional understanding of soft serve ice cream preferred.Experience navigating regulatory compliance within Mexico and the broader LA&C region.

Skills:

Fluent in both English and Spanish (verbal and written)Strong interpersonal communicationEffective communication and presentation skills (MS Office; MS Teams).  Actively participates in meetings.Ability to develop and strengthen relationships with internal and external stakeholders (DQ; Franchisee’s; Vendors; Industry Professionals etc.)Project ManagementAbility to multitask and manage a minimum of plus 20 projects at one time.Strong knowledge of QSR store/equipment operationsAble to effectively use computers and fluent in Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point, MS Teams and NotesProven track record of both benchtop product development work and required accompanying documentation (specifications, training materials) associated with product developmentAbility to maintain attention to detail, multitask and work well under pressure

Competencies

Must be results/goals oriented demonstrating effective problem-solving techniquesAbility to work and communicate and collaborate effectively within a cross functional diverse team environment and with industry stakeholders and franchiseesMust be strategic thought leader with the ability to execute to business needsAssumes personal responsibility for achieving outcomes through project managementBe self-motivated and possess strong project management skills. Has ability to multi-task to develop, manage and implement projects in a timely, cost-effective manner.

Other requirements:

Ability to work on evenings and weekends, as necessary to meet project deadlinesMust have the ability to travel internationally including the US and all countries throughout LA&C as needed (20%)

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.   You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion for all who touch DQ.  We believe in and commit to fostering a community where employees bring their authentic selves to work; where we recruit, engage and retain employees, franchise owners and suppliers with diverse background and identities; and where everyone feels welcome engaging with our DQ brand.