About the role:
Barry Callebaut is a global organization poised for growth; a company that has embraced the vision to delight its customers while out-performing its competitors, a business that is committed to sustainability, has innovation in its DNA, is a leader in complex manufacturing and supply chain solutions and is focused on being a best-in-class employer. Barry Callebaut seeks diverse and passionate people who thrive in a dynamic environment, focused on continuous learning, living BC’s Values, and of course, loving chocolate.
Under the responsibility of the VP R&D Americas, the Director of R&D will be responsible for managing the R&D activities for a country or sub-region, in this case, the US. They will mainly oversee and coordinate the R&D project managers, specialists, technologists, and technicians, as well as the projects and product development based in the assigned area. The Director will also provide guidance to Customer R&D personnel involved with customers and will be actively involved in some internal strategic initiatives. Additionally, the Director will be part of the Americas R&D Leadership team.
Key responsibilities include:
Management: Oversee the R&D personnel and projects within the assigned country or sub-region. Administer, strategize, and provide technical direction to the on-site R&D group(s). Team Development: Coach and develop the entire R&D team to achieve high performance and success. Customer R&D: Guidance to the Customer R&D people and directly involved with customers . Technical Support: Offer necessary technical support to vendors, clients, and operations in case of product-related problems. Project Participation: Actively participate in various Research and Development projects and/or internal strategic projects beyond R&D.. Employee Development: Work on individual development plans to foster the growth of employees. Be an ambassador for diversity and inclusion. Client Relations: Ensure the development of internal and external client relationships and maintain effective communication. Collaboration: Work closely with Sales and Customer R&D teams to support successful product development, addressing customer needs and engaging in customer interactions as required. Strategy Contribution: Contribute to setting the R&D strategy for the Americas as a member of the R&D Leadership team. Mentoring and Coaching: Mentor and coach employees to ensure team effectiveness and engagement. Knowledge Sharing: Promote information and knowledge sharing with others. Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives for continuous improvement in processes, technologies, and organizational aspects. Sustainability: Drive all sustainability projects and be an ambassador for overall sustainability.
About you:
Experience: At least 10 years of progressive management responsibility in the food industry, preferably with chocolate/cocoa experience. R&D development experience Language Proficiency: Fluent in English. Education: Master's degree in Food Technology Sciences, Food Engineering, or Food Science, or a relevant bachelor's degree coupled with relevant experience. Industry Knowledge: Extensive experience in the food industry, demonstrating leadership abilities. Personal Attributes: Resolute, capable of working under pressure and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Interpersonal Skills: Excellent teamwork, communication, and interpersonal relation skills. Analytical Abilities: Strong analytical mindset Flexibility: Flexibility and willingness to travel as needed. Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills, including external customer communication. Software Knowledge: Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google suite, Salesforce, and SAP. Travel requirements: up to 30% of time Commercial business sense is required
What you can expect from Barry Callebaut:
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package Paid time off, plus 12 paid holidays, plus your birthday off Environment that welcomes workplace flexibility An atmosphere where diversity is embraced, and inclusivity is second nature. We call it #OneBC! Just ask our champions with the Americas Women’s Forum and the Racial Equality Forum! Ability to grow personally and professionally within an organization that values development and internal career growth Be part of our mission in making sustainability the norm through Forever Chocolate with priorities centered around prospering farmers, zero child labor, carbon and forest positive, and creating 100% sustainable ingredients in all of our products.
Expected salary range: $161K - $215K USD annually