Sr. Customer R&D Project Manager

About the role:

Barry Callebaut is a global organization poised for growth; a company which has embraced the vision to delight its customers, while out-performing its competitors, a business which is committed to sustainability, has innovation in its DNA, is a leader in complex manufacturing and supply chain solutions and is focused on being a best-in-class employer. Barry Callebaut seeks diverse and passionate people who thrive in a dynamic environment, focused on continuous learning, living BC’s Values and of course loving chocolate.

• Project Management:
  Lead and manage complex new product development projects from theoretical recipe to lab prototype and industrial product for internal and external clients. Ensure full project follow-up and completion of necessary project documents, including recipe creation. Drive complete project from concept to commercialization.
• Project Leadership:
  Provide guidance and direction to the R&D product experts and technologists, fostering a collaborative and high‑performing team environment. Translate technical learnings and insights into commercial opportunities. Lead also customer projects for PDI or innovations with our Product Experts and Innovation people.
• Technical Expertise:
  Offer necessary technical support and expertise to vendors, customers, operations and quality when product‑related problems occur. Advise the sales team on technical and application matters. Provide assistance to all departments as needed regarding technical issues related to confectionery product manufacturing.
• Customer Engagement:
  Actively participate in customer visits and plant trials, providing technical expertise and support to drive successful customer projects.
• Cross‑Functional
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Actively participate in various projects of the Research and Development team, maintaining close interaction with Sales, Operations, Quality, Sourcing and cocoa R&D within the country or region.
• Customer Relations:
  Serve as the key technical contact for the customer, building strong relationships and effectively communicating project updates, technical recommendations, and solutions.
• Market Development:
  Identify and pursue new market opportunities by providing technical support and insights to existing and potential customers.
• Project Documentation:
  Oversee, ensure and complete accurate and comprehensive project follow‑up, documentation, including recipe creation.

• R&D development experience
• Language Proficiency:
  Fluent in the local country language and proficient in English.
• Experience:
  
  Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in the food industry, with a strong focus on new product development. Extensive knowledge of the confectionery sector is highly desirable.
• Leadership Abilities:
  Proven experience in leading and managing cross‑functional teams. Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop team members.
• Personal Attributes:
  Solution driven, capable of working under pressure, and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Excellent teamwork, communication, and leadership of influence.
• Analytical Abilities:
  Strong analytical mindset, with the ability to translate technical findings into actionable insights and commercial opportunities.
• Flexibility:
  Flexibility and willingness to travel as needed.
• Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  Excellent oral and written communication skills, including external customer communication. Ability to present technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Software Knowledge:
  Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, Google suites and Salesforce required. Knowledge of SAP or other project management software is an asset.
• Travel requirements: up to 30% of time

• Salary Range of $,000, based on experience and location, plus bonus and our comprehensive benefits package
• Paid time off, plus generous holiday time
• Environment that welcomes workplace flexibility
• An atmosphere where diversity is embraced, and inclusivity is second nature. We call it #OneBC! Just ask our champions with the Americas Women’s Forum and the Racial Equality Forum!
• Ability to grow personally and professionally within an organization that values development and internal career growth
• Be part of our mission in making sustainability the norm through Forever Chocolate with priorities centered around prospering farmers, zero child labor, carbon and forest positive, and creating 100% sustainable ingredients in all of our products.