Product Optimization Lead

Job Description

Title: Product Optimization Lead

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Department: Innovation 

Reports to: Product Innovation and Development Manager 

Salary: $70,000-80,000 + bonus

Date: 9/2024

Job Summary:

As the Product Optimization Lead, you will support the Product Innovation and Development Manager in strategic and tactical matters related to formula enhancement, optimization, and risk mitigation. You will oversee all aspects of formula management across all co-packers, focusing on cost-saving opportunities, quality improvements, and identifying suitable backup ingredients for those identified as critical for risk mitigation. This role requires close collaboration with various departments, including Operations, Quality, Compliance, and Art, as well as co-packers and ingredient vendors, to ensure our products meet the highest quality standards while optimizing costs. You will play a crucial role in maintaining consistency and excellence in our product formulations. This position is remote with up to 25% travel. 

Supervisory Responsibilities: 

• This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities but will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of formula optimization projects, including ingredient testing, cost analysis, tastings, feedback management, and documentation.
• Oversee general formula management, ensuring all formulas across co-packers are consistently maintained and aligned with quality standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in the Art, Operations, Quality, and Compliance departments to ensure seamless formula optimization processes and successful implementation.
• Maintain comprehensive records of formula changes, approval stages, and project timelines; prepare and present regular updates to stakeholders and leadership.
• Travel to co-packers and suppliers to oversee formula implementation, review specifications, ensure successful product launches, and facilitate handoff to QA/QC.
• Identify and manage cost-saving opportunities and process improvements in formula management and supplier coordination.
• Assess potential risks associated with formula changes and develop mitigation strategies, including identifying and validating backup ingredients for critical components.
• Monitor and address quality or compliance issues during formula optimization and scale-up phases, providing scientific and technical support for continuous improvement.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and co-packers, including ingredient documentation, risk mitigation, sensory vetting, and project oversight.
• Initiate and manage innovation assignments, automate project management processes, update action logs and Asana boards, and enhance formula optimization systems and processes.
• Provide guidance and support to junior team members and new hires involved in formula optimization projects, sharing knowledge to build team capabilities and foster a collaborative environment.
• Conduct activities in accordance with local, state, and federal liquor control regulations, including managing TTB Formulas, TTB COLAs, and other compliance items as needed.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the Director of Innovation.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Experience in the food and beverage industry, particularly in formula management and optimization.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with all departments of the organization, and external partners, to ensure that products meet the highest quality standards and are delivered on time.
• Excellent communication, planning, and organizational skills, with a detail-oriented approach.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and standards related to alcohol production.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Tools such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Motivated to make a difference and contribute to the company's growth and success.

Education/Experience:

• Education: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, Engineering, or a related discipline is typically required, but not mandatory.
• Product Development Expertise: Experience in product development processes, including formulation, testing, and validation, is essential. Candidates should be well-versed in the stages of product development, from concept to market launch.
• Quality Assurance and Quality Control Experience: Candidates should have a strong background in quality assurance and quality control processes, preferably in product development settings. A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience is often required.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant regulatory requirements and standards applicable to the industry, such as TTB, ISO, FDA regulations, GMP, or other industry-specific certifications, is highly beneficial.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.