Sensory Program Manager

Our Research & Development team is proud of where we’ve been, but more interested in where we’re going. This team drives creativity, while driving the growth of our portfolio of products.

You will be responsible for Leading, Designing, Developing, Implementing and Maintaining Talking Rain’s R&D Sensory Program that Supports Product Development, Renovation, Innovation, and Brand Maintenance across the TRBC Business Categories.  This role is pivotal in further integrating consumer-focused sensory research and testing during the design, development and launch process.

Reports to: Director, Research & Development

Direct Reports: Sensory Scientist

Location: Onsite at our Preston, WA office 5 days a week

*Life happens and we know it. In-office days and hours are dependent on department and business needs, so as long as you’re honest about your needs, we will do what we can to support when things pop up.

Annual Bonus Potential: 13% - Eligibility is based on the company hitting annual financial targets.

Base Salary: $105,000 - $135,000 (depending on experience)

Note: New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market

• Lead, Design, Develop, Implement, and Maintain Talking Rain's R&D Sensory testing program that supports precision-based product development.

• Create and implement a robust infrastructure for sensory testing and research – including the development and implementation of procedures in conjunction with multiple cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

• Manage and develop project pipelines and processes while working on multiple projects and priorities.

• Work with brand and product development to define consumer experience targets and sensory testing methodology to ensure the design and development of products that deliver on consumer sensory expectations.

• Build, support, and grow the Sensory team capabilities and talent with a focus on growth, accountability, consumers, agility, customers, and velocity to market while meeting business objectives.

• Accountable for all elements of test execution, including design and administration of appropriate research methods, interpretation and reporting of data, and general consultation on strategic product and business initiatives.

• Identify sensory and/or consumer research needs for new product development and innovation projects.

• Identify and manage external academic/industrial research collaboration and vendor relationships.

• Ensure Standards of Product Quality that meet or exceed customer expectations by adhering to strict testing protocols that have been validated for accuracy.

• Establish and manage relationships with cross-functional teams and serve as a critical-thinking partner.

• Collaborate across different internal and external departments and interact with upper levels of leadership on a regular basis to influence business decisions.

• Establish a long-term strategy growth plan for the sensory team that continues to improve the level and depth of services provided to the organization.

• Lead, coach, and develop talent.

• Develop and monitor the Sensory Testing Budget.

• Oversee Sensory Lab Space optimization and management.

• Complete other responsibilities as assigned.

• A BS or graduate degree in Sensory/Behavioral/Biological Sciences or a related field is preferred.  BS or graduate degree in food science or a related field accepted.

• Bachelor’s degree and 7+ years of work experience with 3-5 years experience in leading/building a consumer-centric sensory program is preferred.  

• 5+ years industry – CPG, Foodservice, MFG, etc is a must.

• Excellent communications skills including the ability to deliver a clear story to influence agreement to your recommendations with data and insights.

• Intellectual curiosity and the creativity to discover and implement new solutions.

• Advanced critical thinking and strategic planning skills.

• Ability to comfortably and confidently present to all levels within the enterprise.

• Effective communicator, able to influence down, up, and cross-functionally driving consensus to action.

• Solutions-oriented, a strategic thinker and decision-maker, and able to build and nurture dynamic effective teams, continuous improvement mindset, result and solutions orientation.

• Strong ability to collaborate with and lead cross functional teams and initiatives.

• Strong ability to build and maintain vendor relationships.

• Strong ability to identify opportunities and influence direct reports, senior leadership and cross functional teams.

• Strong Business acumen and prioritization skills.

• Strong people development skills.

• Ability to adapt to the changing needs of a dynamic growth-oriented business.