Senior Product Innovation Scientist

Job Description:The CONNECT Design Center plays a key role in contributing to the delivery of the Mars Pet Nutrition Strategy. This is achieved through the delivery of global, multi-brand innovations that pet and pet parents needs to build a stronger connection through bonding, reward and play. The purpose of this role is to focus on designing and developing new or existing products that meet these pet parent needs and deliver to cost and efficiency requirements.The scope of these projects varies in the levels of complexity but typically encompasses innovation which covers different ingredients, processes, packaging, product designs and claim technologies.The associate in this role will be expected to serve as a Technical Project Leader and/or a Product Development Workstream Leader (dependent on the project). The individual will contribute to the development of superior propositions based on pet & pet parent insights. They will work in close partnership with the relevant marketing and supply functions, brand boards and R&D functional teams to ensure the technical robustness and validation of the product design.What are we looking for?Ideally you will hold a degree within food science / technology / engineering / chemical engineering or similar field (or equivalent industry experience) Previous experience in a Product Development or Product Innovation role within the food industry.Must have excellent communication skills - English (written/verbal)Excellent interpersonal skills, e.g. communication, relationship building, networking, team spirit.Experienced with leading technical project teams.Understand of translating insights into product execution (Idea to concept to execution)Proven ability to work in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environment.Technical project management experience and expertise.What will be your key responsibilities?Lead technical project teams for global product innovation projects, ensuring development and validation based on pet & pet parent insights, while adhering to the Mars Stage Gate Innovation Process. This will also require acting as the voice of R&D in multi-functional project teams.Ensure technical delivery of medium/high complexity innovation projects, managing time, cost, and quality compliance with relevant business processes and influencing key stakeholders.Manage risk and opportunity within the project team, providing timely communication of project status, breakthroughs, and findings at each stage gate.Ensure product solutions meet agreed business models, including nutrition standards, palatability, cost, and regulatory/IP requirements, while collaborating with cross-functional teams.Participate in early-stage /fundamental Pet Parent (consumer) innovation and ideation programmes and translate outcomes into technical solutions.What can you expect from Mars?Work with over 130,000 diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.Salary: £45,000.00 - £55,000.00 + 12% Bonus*Multiple positions available*#LI-HB1Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.
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