Scientific Innovation Manager

Position: Scientific Innovation Manager           Reports to: Director, R&D and Innovation

Working under the guidance of the Director of Innovation, the Scientific Innovation Manager serves as a key contributor to driving advancements and breakthroughs in food science and technology. This role involves leading research and development initiatives, identifying emerging trends, and translating scientific discoveries into innovative, commercially viable food products and processes. The incumbent will mentor junior team members, collaborate across departments, and foster a culture of scientific excellence and creativity, ensuring projects are aligned with business goals and regulatory requirements.

Job Description

In this role, you will be responsible for organizing and leading scientific research projects, developing strategic innovation roadmaps, and supporting cross-functional initiatives that bring novel food products to market. You will manage project elements, maintain comprehensive research records, analyze data, and communicate findings effectively to various stakeholders. You will also ensure all innovations meet regulatory, quality, and safety standards.

Here is who you are…

Drive & Motivation

• You are passionate about healthy living, organic foods, and scientific discovery.
• You are driven to innovate and contribute to shaping the future of the food industry.

Character & Abilities

• You are meticulous, analytical, and detail-oriented with strong critical thinking skills.
• You are energized by scientific challenges and seek creative, practical solutions.
• You excel at leading cross-disciplinary teams and fostering a collaborative environment.
• You have strong written and verbal communication skills, effectively conveying complex scientific ideas.
• You are a proactive self-starter, able to independently advance research objectives.

Knowledge & Skills

• You have in-depth knowledge of food science, including food safety, microbiology, chemistry, and process engineering.
• You are experienced in experimental design, statistical analysis, and interpretation of scientific data.
• You possess a solid understanding of regulatory standards applicable to food production (e.g., CFIA, FDA).
• You are adept at identifying trends and translating scientific insights into actionable innovations.
• Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation, data management tools, and scientific software is an asset.

Experience

• You bring a minimum of 5 years of experience in food science research, Food engineering, product development, or a related R&D role.
• You have demonstrated leadership experience managing scientific projects and/or multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in the organic, natural, or health food sectors is a strong asset.
• Practical, hands-on experience with equipment.

Nice-to-Have

• Advanced degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in Food Science, Food Technology, Biotechnology, Food engineering, or a related field.
• Familiarity with sensory evaluation methods, nutritional analysis, and emerging food technologies.
• Experience with plant protein extraction and other aspects of pulse and grain fractionation.

Things you will do…

• Lead and manage scientific research and development initiatives to create new food products and improve existing processes.
• Develop strategic innovation roadmaps based on emerging food science trends, consumer insights, and technological advancements.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, operations, and product development teams to bring new concepts to market.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technical staff, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Ensure that all new developments comply with regulatory requirements and internal quality standards.
• Conduct rigorous data analysis, prepare scientific reports, and present findings to leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Monitor industry trends, attend scientific conferences, and leverage external networks to bring cutting-edge innovation to the company.
• Identify and address technical challenges, proactively proposing solutions to improve research outcomes and product quality.

Other…

• May occasionally work evenings and weekends to accommodate experimental testing or project deadlines.