Manager, Research

Summary

A leading North American artisan bakery, ACE Bakery (Division of FGF) specializes in premium all natural artisan bakery products. Using time-honored European traditions and techniques, ACE Bakery has created a legacy of high-quality delicious breads, recognized by many of the top chefs across North America.

The Manager, Research & Development will oversee product innovation and development across the Artisan Bread category. This role will focus on leading product development from concept to commercialization and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive excellence in product quality and innovation. The ideal candidate will lead plant trials, develop new processes, and ensure that the technical aspects of product development are optimized for automation and efficiency.

What FGF Offers

• FGF believes in Home Grown Talent, accelerated career growth with leadership training.  Unleashing Your Potential 
• Competitive Compensation, Health Benefits, & a generous flexible medical / Health spending account
• RRSP matching program
• Tuition reimbursement & company annual bonus
• Discount program that covers almost everything under the sun - Restaurants, gyms, shopping etc. 

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end product development process, from ideation to commercialization, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic goals and customer needs
• Oversee and coordinate product trials, development samples, and the creation of detailed product specifications (product characteristics, costs, measurements, ingredients, bake times, etc.)
• Collaborate with production, packaging, and engineering teams to introduce process improvements and maintain the highest product quality standards.
• Ensure successful execution of sample requests, overseeing the manufacturing and delivery of sample boards to key customers
• Provide leadership in automation and process efficiency, working with engineering to optimize equipment capabilities
• Ensure regulatory compliance of all new products, including labeling, ingredients, and supplier certifications
• Engage with customers and internal stakeholders to manage inquiries, provide technical insights, and ensure successful product launches
• Lead product sensory trials and performance testing, ensuring feedback is integrated into product improvements
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in product development, including staying updated on industry trends and innovations
• Perform additional duties as required, ensuring alignment with company goals

Required Experience

• B.Sc. in Food Science or a related Science discipline or Culinary Diploma/ Baking/Pastry Program
• Passion for baking (at home or professionally)
• 5+ years' experience in a food manufacturing facility, with a focus on product development and innovation
• Proven expertise in bakery production processes and equipment, with a strong mechanical aptitude
• Experience in driving innovation and improving automation within a production environment
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across multiple departments and with external
  partners
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
• Fluency in English; French proficiency is an asset
• Flexibility to work early mornings or alternate schedules when required
• Willingness to travel for business purposes
• Must possess a valid driver's license and access to a vehicle

What is the recipe for a great career at FGF?

Working at FGF Brands, there is never a dull moment As a successful company that is continually growing there is always challenging yet rewarding work to be a part of. We have an entrepreneurial spirit which encourages all our team members to use their own creativity and out of the box thinking to come up with solutions and new ideas.

"In compliance with Ontario's Bill 190, we confirm that this posting represents a current, existing vacancy within our organization."

Disclaimer: The above describes the general responsibilities, required knowledge and skills.  Please keep in mind that other duties may be added or this description may be amended at any time.

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