OUR BRANDS PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

** Must reside or be willing to relocate to Cincinnati, OH 

Direct all technical and scientific aspects of the Our Brand product development support functions within Corporate Food Technology (CFT). Collaborate with key business partners to ensure CFT delivers the right type and level of support for product development and ensuing quality for products manufactured in our Kroger 32 manufacturing facilities (KMP) and thousands of external contracted vendors (KLP). Partner with individuals and teams to ensure our manufacturing plants and outside suppliers develop and commercialize products according to the company’s food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance requirements. Demonstrate the company’s core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion and safety. 

• Collaborate with CFT leaders to develop and drive strategies around important business goals associated with product development, quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance
• Anticipate changes to the competitive market of private label while working through Our Brands team.
• Follow technology changes that may affect the food industry by maintaining professional contact with peers in the industry, universities and government agencies
• Lead technical aspects of product development, product approval and quality improvement processes
• Collaborate with Corporate Brands Strategy and Innovation, Sourcing, Manufacturing Operations and CFT to establish priorities and allocate team resources; effectively negotiate obstacles and keep projects on track
• Partner to select raw material, finished product and packaging suppliers that best achieve quality and cost requirements
• Lead response to customer comment trends and prioritize product quality opportunities linked to product development
• Lead ongoing evaluation of work processes in product development, product approval and quality specifications to keep pace with the changing needs of our company and customers
• Develop long-term strategic partnerships with relevant business areas to drive market share through product and service quality
• Travel to plants, vendors and industry locations for execution of essential job duties 
• Follow established programs, policies and practices to produce safe, quality foods that meet regulatory and company requirements 
• Accountable to the Kroger Food Safety and Quality Principles
• Supervise and coach direct reports in the performance of their duties; complete performance reviews and         provides feedback to direct reports
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation 

Minimum

• Master’s degree in food science/technology, dairy science, bakery science, or related field
• 10+ years of experience leading product development teams in private label manufacturing or national brand teams
• Demonstrated excellence in leadership, strategic planning, problem solving and project execution spanning multiple disciplines and teams
• Strong foundational knowledge of key regulations (e.g. ingredient statements, nutritional claims) associated with product development and quality assurance 
• Ability to support successful new or innovative product launches in a rapidly changing environment

 

Desired 

• Ph.D. degree in food science/technology or in a related field
• Experience as Corp Food Tech Manager of Product Development

From one tiny Cincinnati grocery store more than a century ago, we’ve grown into what today is the nation’s largest grocer with nearly 2,800 stores in 35 states operating under 28 different names. As America’s grocer, we take pride in bringing diverse teams with a passion for food and people together with one common purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit. With a history of innovation, we work tirelessly to create amazing experiences for our customers, communities AND each other, with food at the heart of it all. Here, people matter. That’s why we strive to provide the ingredients you need to create your own recipe for success at work and in life. We help feed your future by providing the value and care you need to grow. If you’re caring, purpose-driven and hungry to learn, your potential is unlimited. Whether you’re seeking a part-time position or a new career path, we’ve got a fresh opportunity for you. Apply today to become part of our Kroger family! 

What you’ll receive from us:

The Kroger Family of Companies offers comprehensive benefits to support your Associate Well-Being, including Physical, Emotional, Financial and more. We'll help you thrive, with access to:

• A wide range of healthcare coverage, including affordable, comprehensive medical, dental, vision and