Technical Applications Group Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Oversee the delivery of product, process, packaging, and ingredient initiatives that support Innovation & Renovation (I&R), cost optimization, and business maintenance.

• Manage the end-to-end execution of cross-functional technical projects from concept to commercialization, ensuring alignment with scope, timelines, and business objectives.

• Collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Supply Chain teams to provide compliant, manufacturable solutions and resolve risks and issues.

• Offer technical leadership and support to manufacturing sites, focusing on scale-up, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Execute I&R strategies for supported categories, prioritizing resources and budgets to align with project and business requirements.

• Spearhead the introduction of new products and processes into factories, including technology transfers, supplier/co-manufacturer support, and global initiative execution.

• Ensure compliance with Nestlé standards, GMP, and regulatory requirements; assist with audits and work towards resolving compliance gaps.

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing technical team; enhance capabilities in product and process mastery while fostering team engagement and performance.

• Facilitate knowledge transfer and serve as a technical training and coaching resource for manufacturing teams, addressing root causes and enhancing operational capabilities.

• Promote continuous improvement across products, processes, and tools to elevate quality, speed, and cost efficiency while utilizing internal and external best practices.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field (advanced degree preferred).

• Over 5 years of experience in CPG, food manufacturing, technical applications, or product development.

• Proven experience in leading cross-functional technical projects and delivering results through stage-gate processes.

• Previous experience in people leadership or team management is preferred.

• Strong understanding of food manufacturing, ingredient/product design, and commercialization processes.

• Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, QMS, and relevant regulatory standards (e.g., CFR Title 21).

• Experience in introducing new products/processes into manufacturing settings.

• Knowledge of cross-functional operations spanning R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain; cross-market experience is a plus.

• Proficiency with enterprise systems/tools (e.g., SAP) is preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• Performance-based incentives.

• Competitive total rewards package.

• 401(k) with company match.

• Healthcare coverage.

• Benefits that support physical, financial, and emotional wellbeing.