Associate Manager, Innovation

ApplyJob TypeFull-timeDescriptionSupport innovation projects as they move from concept to launch within the StageGate™ process Assist with the creation and management of our new product pipeline for the domestic and global businesses helping to research, size and forecast ideas as neededManage inputs for databases that help drive the development and tracking of new products Lead & support data gathering and analysis of consumer, competitor and industry insights Become a category expert and find unique but compelling data points for product sell in and concept rationales.Coordinate and assist with the testing of unique product ideas and prototypes against key consumer needs Work with R & D to lead the management and tracking of product testing throughout the development lifecycle Assist with management and relationship building with our outside vendors to ensure we are a priority client, driving to create quality outputs, while remaining on time and on budgetWork closely with our R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Marketing and Sales teams to effectively support innovation projects cross functionallyCoordinate retailer council partnerships and sales inputs that can be used to gain new product insights Manage detailed deliverables related to the creative execution of new products including timelines, technical documents and packaging proofing to ensure on time art delivery with internal and external agenciesWork with our Project Management team to effectively manage the product development process, including timelines and stage gate deliverables; coordinate inputs as neededSupport the implementation of improved innovation processes across the organizationRequirements2+ years of experience in innovation, brand management or marketing role in the Consumer Package Goods industry, pet food experience a plusBachelor’s Degree in Business[CB1] or related field requiredHighly motivated self-starter with ability to manage multiple projects at various levels of complexity in a fast-paced environmentDetail-oriented with strong analytical skills to generate data-driven recommendations and decisionsExperience in using syndicated data sources such as Nielsen to enable analysis of industry data is a plusExperience with research tools and processesStrong written and verbal communication skillsComfort working with a remote manager, while working alongside a well-developed Oak Creek based Marketing team. Strong collaborator with proven ability to work with many cross functional stakeholders