Global Manager- Emerging Technology and Pilot Testing

• Oversee research and development operations of pilot facility including scheduling, test run specifications and equipment readiness.
• Manage small-batch production runs for new product concepts, line extensions, or process validation.
• Collaborate with the Operations team to ensure effective use and optimal functioning of the pilot facility.

• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies relevant to pet nutrition, processing, and sustainability.
• Conduct competitive and market intelligence to scout for technology trends, startups, and innovations in the pet food sector and other food industries.
• Work with Global Director to build partnerships with MARS Pet Nutrition, external research institutions, and tech vendors to accelerate breakthrough innovation.
• Develop business cases and feasibility reports for integrating new technologies into product development or manufacturing.

• Develop, test, and iterate prototypes in collaboration with Technical and Marketing Innovation teams.
• Lead cross-functional innovation workshops using Design Thinking methodologies to identify and solve consumer and technical challenges.
• Work with consumer insights group to translate consumer insights and unmet needs into early-stage product concepts and prototypes.
• Facilitate rapid ideation, concept development, and MVP creation tailored to pet food innovation.
• Analyze sensory data to refine formulations and optimize product attributes such as texture, aroma, and appearance.
• Provide updates/reports to the Global Director, Technical Innovation and Development, and the larger corporate team on the status of all investigations
• Accurate and efficient planning and management of resources to meet schedules and coordinate departmental functions.

• Aid in the development of ideas for new ingredients and products that are in alignment with the Company’s strategy and food philosophy.
• Manage ingredient development test runs and prototyping.
• Substantiate and translate breakthrough ideas and research into potential product concepts
• Conduct technical assessments of novel ingredients to ensure they meet production, scalability, and quality requirements.
• Collaborate with the QA team to manage risks and identify opportunities related to new ingredients and technologies, including mitigation strategies, kill step validation, and shelf life assessment.

• Demonstration of a high level of understanding of the pet food industry, including attending forums or seminars related to the development of new trends or technologies within the pet food realm and reporting back to R&I team regarding findings.
• Demonstration of knowledge of the Company’s policies and practices regarding health, safety and the environment, including commitment to personal compliance with same.
• Perform other tasks as required or assigned.

• Minimum of Masters of Science Degree in related field (Food Science, Animal Science, Biology, etc.), PhD is considered an asset
• 5+ years of previous experience in a technical innovation setting; meat handling and processing experience is an asset.
• 3+ years of supervisory experience, delegating tasks to staff in order to meet project timelines.
• Knowledge of processing processes, including extrusion, freeze-dry, retort, sous vide, etc. in the pet food industry. Hands-on experience preferred.
• Knowledge and experience in implementing design thinking processes.
• Experience in interacting with other individuals in the food and/or pet food industries, demonstrating diplomacy and professionalism at all times.
• Detail-oriented, with a good ability to review documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills with the ability to multi-task and set priorities.
• Uses discretion and judgment in handling confidential, proprietary or sensitive information.
• Able to work effectively independently or within a group.
• Passion to learn, develop, and implement new technologies and methods.
• Computer proficiency with MS Office programs.

• Work encompasses both an office and a pet food production environment.
• Intermittent physical activity includes walking, standing and sitting for extended periods of time.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds using correct and safe lifting technique.
• Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals.
• Ability to attend and/or conduct presentations/meetings.
• PPE may be required for some locations where this position is regularly required to work.
• Must be able to physically inspect company property and assets.
• Ability to travel internationally on an as needed basis
• Some extended hours of work may be required.

• Safety: a strong commitment to ensure all people are provided with a safe, healthy and respectful environment.
• Earnings: Competitive Wages that give financial peace of mind, RRSP with Company, and donation matching.
• Industry Competitive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision and Employee Assistance Programs to meet your individual or family needs.
• Continuing Education: In House & Online Learning & Development, as well as an Education Assistance Program.
• Quality: a dedication to uphold the highest standards of authenticity, nutritional integrity, and food safety, to earn the trust of Pet Lovers everywhere.
• Other Perks: Free Bag of Premium Pet Food each month, Free Parking and more!

Mars