* full-time
* job duration: regular
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 & caribbean 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 development
o supports category growth and marketing calendar execution within the la&c region. Collaborates with 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.
o 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.
o performs advanced creative and technical product development assignments within the food/treat category. Identifies product and procedural problems and leads initiatives to find solutions.
o creates and approves meaningful ingredient specifications, final product specifications and product preparation documents.
* project management
o proactively contributes in updating and tracking of on-going projects with peers on the la&c team and franchisees.
o effectively communicates thoughts and ideas, both written and oral, in a diverse multi-level environment.
o proactively directs and manages suppliers and works closely with pd to develop new ingredients and products.
* collaboration and teamwork
o builds and maintains cooperative working relationships internally and externally.
o provides strategic thought leadership and contributes by identifying key opportunities related to product development.
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 communication.
* effective communication and presentation skills (ms office; ms teams).
* ability to develop and strengthen relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
* project management.
* ability to multitask and manage multiple projects at one time.
other requirements:
* ability to work on evenings and weekends, as necessary to meet project deadlines.
* must have the ability to travel internationally including the us and all countries throughout la&c as needed (20%).
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