Senior Science & Innovation Manager

Senior Science & Innovation Manager

Senior Science & Innovation Manager

Location: Naas, Co. Kildare

About the Company
Our client is a leading organisation in the food industry, recognised for excellence, continuous innovation, and strong investment in talent. They foster a collaborative culture where creativity, forward thinking, and professional development are encouraged at every level.

Role Purpose
We are recruiting a Senior Science & Innovation Manager to join a high performing Science & Innovation function. This senior leadership role will drive innovation initiatives and oversee the strategic implementation of projects across the business.
The successful candidate will combine creative, future focused thinking with strong leadership and strategic planning capabilities. You will work cross functionally to ensure innovative concepts are delivered effectively and aligned with organisational goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to advance innovation and optimise business processes.
• Provide leadership to innovation specialists and project managers, ensuring high quality delivery.
• Lead and manage customer focused innovation teams and projects from concept through to implementation.
• Oversee the development and roll out of new products, services, and processes.
• Monitor project progress and present updates to senior leadership.
• Partner with internal teams to identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Manage project budgets, ensuring effective allocation of resources.
• Build and maintain relationships with external partners including vendors, experts, and research bodies.
• Conduct market research to identify industry trends and emerging opportunities.
• Support the development of a collaborative, high performing innovation team.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Innovation Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Food manufacturing background is essential.
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing multi-disciplinary teams.
• Proven experience in innovation management, strategic planning, and project delivery.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience managing budgets for medium to large scale projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability with a results focused mindset.
• Strong understanding of current industry trends and innovation best practices.
• Ability to think creatively, strategically, and with a continuous improvement approach.

Benefits

• Competitive annual leave entitlement
• Pension plan
• Health insurance scheme
• Subsidised canteen
• Wellness initiatives
• Training, development, and clear career progression opportunities

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