Commercialization Manager

WAWONA FROZEN FOODSAbout This CompanyFounded in 1963, Wawona Frozen Foods specializes in the growing and freezing of fresh fruit. As a pioneer in the frozen fruit industry, the company is a leader in producing many of America's favorite fruits, including peaches, strawberries, pears, plums, and unique mixed fruit blends.With a strong family heritage and a commitment to the highest standards of food safety, Wawona delivers products with exceptional taste, texture, and natural sweetness. Customers rely on Wawona for quality, consistency, and outstanding service.About This RoleThe Commercialization Manager will lead the successful launch and ongoing market performance of Wawona's frozen fruit products across retail, foodservice, and industrial channels. This role bridges operations, sales, marketing, and quality to ensure products are effectively brought to market, meet customer expectations, and drive revenue growth.This position works cross-functionally across two production facilities in Clovis and Fresno, CA, ensuring alignment between product development, manufacturing capabilities, and commercialization strategies.DUTIES INCLUDEGo-to-Market Strategy & ExecutionDevelop and execute commercialization strategies for new and existing frozen fruit productsIdentify target markets, customer segments, and channel opportunities (retail, foodservice, industrial)Partner with Sales and Marketing to define product positioning, pricing, and launch plansCross-Functional LeadershipCollaborate with Operations, Quality, R&D, and Supply Chain to ensure product readiness and launch successAlign production capabilities with customer demand, timelines, and product specificationsServe as a key liaison between plant operations and commercial teamsProduct Launch & Lifecycle ManagementLead end-to-end commercialization from concept through launch and post-launch performance trackingCoordinate timelines, resources, and deliverables for new product introductionsMonitor product performance, customer feedback, and market trends to drive continuous improvementCustomer & Market InsightsAnalyze market trends, competitor activity, and customer needs to identify growth opportunitiesSupport key customer relationships by aligning product offerings with their requirementsTranslate customer insights into actionable product and operational strategiesProcess Optimization & Continuous ImprovementDrive efficiencies in commercialization processes, including product setup, specification alignment, and launch executionStandardize processes and documentation across both facilitiesTrack and report on KPIs such as product launch success, revenue growth, and customer satisfactionRequirementsRequired:5+ years of experience in commercialization, product management, sales, or operations within food manufacturing (frozen or produce preferred)Strong understanding of food production processes and commercialization lifecycleProven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage product launchesExperience working with customers in retail, foodservice, or CPG environmentsStrong analytical, organizational, and communication skillsBilingual English/Spanish highly preferredAbility to travel between Clovis and Fresno locations and flex across business needsPreferredExperience in frozen food, produce, or high-volume manufacturing environmentsKnowledge of GFSI/SQF standards and food safety requirementsExperience with ERP systems, forecasting, and demand planningBackground in pricing strategy, margin management, or market analysisLOCATIONThis position will work across our Clovis and Fresno facilities.WHY SHOULD YOU APPLYCompetitive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, FSA, DCAP, and a generous 401(k) match.Culture of Growth: We invest in training and career development-your growth matters here.Family-Owned Values: A collaborative, people-first environment where your work matters.Unique Perks: Wawona Wednesdays, seasonal appreciation events, branded gear, and more.Meaningful Impact: Help shape the future of a trusted brand in the foodservice industry.PHYSICAL AND/OR MENTAL DEMANDSWork in environments with medium to loud noise, cold temperatures, and wet/humid conditionsStand, walk, and reach; occasional sitting, talking, or hearingLift/move up to 45 lbs. occasionallyExposure to production environments including mechanical systems and cold storageWear required PPE and adhere to food manufacturing guidelinesAdditional InformationApplicants must be fully authorized to work in the U.S. and physically present in the U.S.Wawona Frozen Foods is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to protected characteristics.Notice To RecruitersWawona Frozen Foods does not accept unsolicited resumes without a signed agreement.