Arla is looking for an Innovation Manager to be a key member of the Arla Marketing team and will lead, manage and maintain our Arla US innovation pipeline as well as collaborate cross-functionally to successfully develop and launch new dairy products.This position is a hybrid, full time, exempt role with our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing, entrepreneurial organization both domestically and abroad. Arla Foods (www.arlafoodsusa.com), is a global leader in the dairy and specialty deli segment with top brands worldwide including Arla, Castello, and Lurpak.
How you will make an impact:
Innovation Pipeline
Maintain and replenish a three year view of the Arla US new product development (NPD) pipeline
Work closely with Sales and the cross-functional team on customer-driven NPDs and ensure all customer specific needs and requirements are addressed
Responsible for sourcing imported product samples for US market roll-out consideration or during product development
Consumer Research & Portfolio Education
Work closely with the Global Market Insights team on all consumer research projects to validate and test NPD concepts, flavors, pricing, etc.
Partner with the brand leads to create and execute an annual research plan
Assess and identify category and consumer trends within the US specialty cheese and dairy categories
Complete quarterly competitive assessment presentations to keep informed with competitive launches and portfolio changes
Partner with Brand Managers to conduct new hire cheese onboarding and product introduction sessions
Product Development & Launch
Lead NPD projects during Stage 1 (Explore) & 2 (Define) within our Stage Gate commercialization process
Coordinate the development and distribution of sell-in materials to the Sales team
Collaborate with Trade Marketing and Brand Managers to quantify and set KPI targets for all NPD launches (volume, distribution, velocities, etc.)
Partner closely with domestic, international and contract manufacturing production sites to stay informed with capabilities
Collaborate with key internal supply chain partners to assess the preliminary manufacturing plan
Work closely with our Project Managers to fully commercialize NPD launches
What will make you successful
Strong data analytical skills; syndicated data experience (Nielson, IRI, etc.) is preferred
Extremely detail oriented
Excellent communication skills; Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing
Entrepreneurial self-starter, comfortable asking questions and willing to research in order to get answers needed when not readily available
Able to work with international stakeholders and peers
Has worked in a “roll up your sleeves” environment
Strong problem-solving skills
Strong organizational and time management skills
Strong computer skills, i.e. Microsoft Office Suites
Ability to work in fast-paced environment
Results and detail-oriented, ability to multi-task and adhere to deadlines
Education & Experience Required:
Minimum completion of Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or related discipline
3-5 years innovation or product development experience within Consumer Packaged Goods, preferably in a premium perishable food category
Experience launching products across, grocery, club, and mass channels
Ability to work with external partners and build relationships
At Arla, we strive to unlock the highest potential in each other while working together to create a sustainable future of dairy. The strength of our organisation is defined by our people and how we lead ourselves and others to envision the future, engage people and deliver performance.
Would you like to join us?
Please send resume to Maureen Bruton mabru@arlafoods.com
