Innovation Operations Manager

Our client, a personal care manufacturing company, is looking for a Innovation Operations Manager to join their team! This will be a onsite role working out of their office in Kenilworth. The successful candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and 5 years of project management experience leading cross-functional teams.Contract Role: 7 months Pay: $62/hr on W2 Responsibilities:Oversees the full lifecycle of innovation and operational initiatives including New Product Development (NPD) and Business Continuity from initial concept through to final launch. Serves as the central point of contact to align internal departments (Marketing, R&D, Finance, Supply Chain) and external partners to ensure seamless execution in a matrixed environment. Owns the development of integrated project plans and ensures strict adherence to stage-gate frameworks, critical milestones, and regulatory compliance standards. Tracks project budgets and cost-optimization opportunities while proactively identifying, mitigating, and escalating risks to keep projects on scope and within budget. Drives continuous improvement by maintaining transparent reporting dashboards and leading "lessons learned" sessions to streamline workflows and delivery effectiveness. Required Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in a technical or business field (Science, Engineering, or Operations), with a PMP certification preferred. 5 years in project management, specifically within FMCG, beauty, or regulated consumer products, with experience navigating matrixed organizations. Expert-level capability in MS Project, Excel, and PowerPoint, with a strong understanding of structured stage-gate governance and critical path management. Demonstrated ability to manage project budgets, identify value-based savings, and engage effectively with senior leadership. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, characterized by a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and the ability to resolve cross-functional conflicts. The Solomon Page DistinctionSolomon Page offers a comprehensive benefit program for hourly employees. We pride ourselves on offering medical, dental, 401(k), direct deposit and commuter benefits to our employees, including freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve.About Solomon PageFounded in 1990, Solomon Page is a specialty niche provider of staffing and executive search solutions across a wide array of functions and industries. The success of Solomon Page reflects an organic growth strategy supported by a highly entrepreneurial culture. Acting as a strategic partner to our clients and candidates, we focus on providing customized solutions and building long-term relationships based on trust, respect, and the consistent delivery of excellent results. For more information and additional opportunities, visit: solomonpage.com and connect with us on Facebook, and LinkedIn.Opportunity Awaits.