Innovation and Development Specialist

ROLE: Innovation & Development Specialist (II)

REPORTS TO: Director of Innovation & Development

LOCATION: Annacis Island

We are looking for an Innovation & Development Specialist to join our Innovation and Development team The Innovation and Development Specialist is responsible for leading the execution of product innovation, optimization and risk mitigation projects from ideation to commercialization. 

Opportunities 

This is a very exciting time for the Innovation and Development team as we continue to grow and expand We are looking for a self driven, passionate and curious minded individual to join our growing team. This role gives you the opportunity to work alongside some of the best leaders and with cutting-edge food science and technologies. You will have the perfect platform to showcase fresh ideas, creativity and create an impact in the plant-based category. 

Here is who you are… 

Drive & motivation

• You are driven by curiosity, passion, and a desire to contribute to a company committed to delivering best-in-class products.

• You're a scientist who's excited to use your skills to drive real-world impact alongside a collaborative team.

• You think outside the box to develop new food concepts and effectively bring them to life.

• You thrive on learning, constantly aim to grow, and turn challenges into opportunities for innovation.

Character & ABILITIES 

• You can communicate and listen effectively to deliver your message with purpose and seek to understand.

• You possess excellent critical thinking, project management and problem-solving skills. 

• You stay organized and focused under pressure, adapting seamlessly to shifting priorities and fast-changing conditions.

• You have the ability to work independently, and as part of a team to build strong and collaborative relationships across cross functional teams.

Knowledge & skills

• You possess solid knowledge of food chemistry and microbiology, along with expertise in food production processes and Canadian regulatory standards.

• You have knowledge and hands on experience in product development process, evaluating ingredient functionality, and conducting laboratory techniques.

• You can design and execute well-structured experiments, statistical data analysis, and result interpretation for evidence-based decision-making.

• You have knowledge of Genesis, Organic, Non-GMO & Kosher certification standards and requirements.

• You are proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint

Experience

• You have a Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related (Masters preferred).

• You have at least 4 years of experience in product development in beverage and/or related food industry in Canada or US. 

Nice-to-Have 

• You are familiar with project management systems such as Stage Gate.  

• You have experience and success in leading cross functional teams. 

• You have worked with co-packers and lead troubleshooting efforts with Operations team.

things you will do… 

• Drive multiple product development projects from concept to launch by conducting hands-on R&D experiments and data analysis on sensory, functionality, micro, shelf life testing, etc.

• Research industry trends, technology and emerging ingredients to support leadership in shaping strategy and building an innovation pipeline for best-in-class products.

• Apply knowledge of Health Canada and FDA regulations during formulation creation, label and claim review and resolve regulatory issues in collaboration with cross functional teams.

• Research and collaborate with external research institutes or suppliers to deepen knowledge in plant-based fields.

• Work closely with QA and Operations teams to ensure the success of trials, product launches, and troubleshoot when necessary.

• Understand the Stage Gate Process as well as R&D internal SOPs, in-depth and assist the team in performing accordingly.

• Assist in the application and maintenance of Organic, Kosher, and Non-GMO certifications.

OTHER … 

• This position requires some level of travel and flexibility in schedule.