MFG Manager, R&D-San Antonio, TX

Manager, Manufacturing R&D H-E-B Manufacturing’s goal is to achieve superior self‑manufactured products through high quality, low‑cost products and services. Our self‑manufacturing Research and Development team supports product development for 11 food manufacturing plants, helping H-E-B stay competitive and successful in the omnichannel business and delight our customers. Responsibilities As a Manager, Research & Development, you’ll provide technical leadership to your R&D and cross‑functional teams for multiple categories and projects and manage complex portfolios of projects. This position will specialize in development and formula management of frozen dough, sweet goods such as cakes, cookies, pies, brownies, as well as high‑speed production of bread, buns and tortillas. Candidates should possess expert knowledge of ingredient interactions and formulation, ensuring products are optimized for performance, consistency and scalability on commercialized production lines. You’ll coordinate with other department leaders to develop strategy and set functional policy and procedures for the Manufacturing Division, define and set priorities for cross‑functional product development and launch execution teams, and provide mentoring and guidance to less experienced R&D, Quality Assurance, and Operations partners. Once you’re eligible, you’ll become an Owner in the company, so we’re looking for commitment, hard work, and focus on quality and customer service. “Partner‑owned” means our most important resources—People—drive the innovation, growth, and success that make H‑E‑B the greatest omnichannel retailer. What is the work? Manages R&D partners, including training and development, delivering on‑time performance appraisals; provides feedback, coaching, and mentoring to ensure partners can meet individual accountabilities and grow their careers. Performs broad product‑development activities as assigned on a per‑project basis; collaborates with multiple teams and suppliers throughout project scope. Maximizes supplier capabilities to develop the product portfolio throughout the full lifecycle of product development and design process. Negotiates with suppliers and other external stakeholders to develop procurement contracts and ensure adherence to specifications and legal agreements. Manages R&D budget through financial estimation and project feasibility analysis; works with plant management, Procurement, and Own Brands to ensure ROI goals are achieved. Leads efforts to establish industry‑leading specifications for Own Brand products with suppliers that reflect the essential quality parameters for customer delight and success. Develops action plans with QA / Own Brand for products requiring quality improvements (maintenance); manages these projects to completion. Leads product evaluations on behalf of the category team; collaborates with Customer Insights / Research Team on customer panel evaluations. Strategy Participates in/contributes to all aspects of product design, including new idea generation, prototype development, competitive assessments, and technical/regulatory/food‑safety compliance. Develops/leses/ manages highly‑complex and strategic Own Brand and H‑E‑B programs / initiatives (e.g., Select Ingredients) to support company business goals. Ensures designs and product objectives support merchant category plans, assortment strategies, price point, and overall creative direction. Researches/analyzes industry technology trends and consumer trends to advise H‑E‑B partners, teams on how to bring the best solutions to customers and businesses. Plays a key role in capital‑planning process; identifies future processing/packaging technologies required for new product categories; provides formulation and processing financials for development of capital business requests. Works with plant management, BDM, Own Brand to develop multi‑year project plans; establishes annualized incremental profit goals. Qualifications Master of Science in food technology / food science, engineering, or related field, and 8+ years of related experience, or a Bachelor of Science degree and 10+ years of relevant experience. Technical training related to sensory evaluations and experimental design. Extensive experience in project management, including application of stage‑gate methodology. Experience influencing decisions in a highly complex, competitive food manufacturing environment at all organizational levels. Experience in branded food product development. Experience in portfolio management, including timeline / financial / quality KPI management. Expert knowledge of HACCP, USDA, OSHA, FDA, potentially hazardous foods, and state weight and measure requirements. Expert knowledge of the private‑label retail food business environment and metrics. Advanced working knowledge of industry, EEOC, and employment laws, and related compliance requirements. Expert knowledge of technology / consumer trends and how to identify / define key product quality and sensory attributes. Expert knowledge of product development, including manufacturing, packaging ingredients, and nutrition. Technical knowledge of food production equipment. Expert understanding of consumer retail products, financial assessment, and capital planning. Expert verbal / written communication and presentation skills that translate on an international scale. Advanced mathematical / analytical skills. Advanced computer skills (including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, D365, Genesis R&D Food Labeling Software). Advanced negotiating / influencing skills. Advanced troubleshooting, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills. Ability to effectively teach complex technical information to a non‑technical audience. Ability to understand business objectives, and how technical solutions must fit within business realities. Ability to lead and motivate exempt and exempt partners, one‑on‑one or in teams. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines, and shift focus between projects; attention to detail. Ability to work in a team environment. Ability to work complex issues with senior management, and lead / influence internal and external stakeholders. Ability to make key decisions on a daily basis while seeking perspective and input. Ability to take initiative; willingness to take calculated risks and collaborate with key partners for alignment. Additional Requirements Function in a fast‑paced, manufacturing environment. Travel by car or plane with overnight stays, with possible international travel. Sit or stand for extended periods. Regularly lift 20 lbs or more. Work extended or unusual hours. #J-18808-Ljbffr H-E-B