Innovation & Strategy Specialist

 

Nestlé’s Research & Development Center is our regional powerhouse driving innovation in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical science. Backed by our global Nestlé R&D organization, we lead breakthrough discoveries that are both good for consumers and the planet. Our team of experts range from product developers to engineers, working across our portfolio of food, beverage, infant nutrition, and health science to create leading-edge products and services. As part of our organization, you will use your entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence to unlock the power of food and provide premium value.   

 

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

 

 

JOB SUMMARY: 

This position is responsible to support and enable R&D including R+D Accelerator project teams in making rapid and data-based decisions by leading the proposal, creation and analysis of consumer and shopper experiments in order to validate the Problem-Solution Fit and Product-Market Fit.  The Growth Hacker will also proactively contribute through all R&D project phases including consumer desirability, technical feasibility, and commercial viability using Lean Start-up and Design Thinking approaches.

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work alongside our R&D and R+D Accelerator project teams to identify and understand consumer needs and motivations.  Network with R&D and Brand insights teams to support projects with additional knowledge and expertise where needed.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research as necessary based on team research objectives.
• Identify and validate assumptions and select Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) to measure the success of experiments.
• Analyze and present data, results, methods and consumer feedback in appropriate written and oral form to relevant team members and stakeholders.
• Understand conversion rate optimization (CRO) principles and apply them to the business and project needs.
• Test ideas through offline and online experiments.
• Work with the AARRR framework (Acquisition – Activation – Revenue – Retention – Referral) and be able to create viral growth through key campaigns and messaging.
• Lead the continuous learning, engagement and improvement of what digital tools and experiment methodologies are available and which are best leveraged for each project.
• Liaise with NUSA research community and R&D including the Accelerator Growth Hacking network to develop functional competencies and implement/improve ways of working.
• Be a recognized ambassador of R&D, especially the Accelerator, in the organization.
• Effectively network with external agency partners to establish supplemental capabilities and, when leveraged, to ensure consistency in approach and methods aligned with Nestlé standards. 

 

 QUALIFICATIONS:

 (Education, Experience and Knowledge): 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Business or related field
• Preferred minimum 5 years’ experience in rapid innovation and/or entrepreneurial roles within consumer insights
• Preferred previous experience with content, product and social media marketing and consumer engagement and testing.
• Demonstrated collaboration skills, but also ability to act as a leader within field of expertise and interact with key stakeholders
• Proven ability to turn big picture questions and insights into clear actions and output
• Knowledge of Design Thinking and Lean Methodologies
• Possess data-driven mindset with a clear understanding of KPI’s, lean analytics and statistics

 

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

A proactive independent person and is able to lead/manage/complete projects with minimal supervision. Creative and innovative with a sense of urgency and passion.

 

SUPERVISION GIVEN:

This individual will not have direct reports.

 

 

STRATEGIC IMPACT:

 

This position is in support and service of Nestle US R&D – Arlington site, supporting multiple product categories, including (not limited to): Beverages, Snacks, Baking.  As needed, this position may also provide support to other R&D sites and product categories, such as Frozen Foods and Coffee

 

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To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role.  In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities.  Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified ind