Raw Material Expert

Raw Material Expert – Ferrero

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The North American R&D raw material expert identifies new raw materials, develops and/or improves semi‑finished and finished products for Innovation, Renovation and Brand Maintenance projects.

Prepares, issues and updates the specifications of raw material of competence following the Ferrero policy. Supports the preparation and issuing of the related specifications. Analyzes the raw material to have the knowledge in terms of testing, taste and shelf life. Defines the raw material characteristics using external laboratories when needed and works in collaboration with the Central team based out of Italy.

In business continuity situations and for the constant brand maintenance ability to react quickly in case of challenges or take advantage of new opportunities. Supports the Commercial & Operational team during trial test for eventual problems related to raw materials resolution. Verifies possible improvement technological‑productive of alternative raw materials. Collaborates with the technical entities to ensure the raw material characteristics maintenance.

• Identifies new raw materials to enable the development of semi‑finished and finished products in collaboration with Cross‑Functional team members and Ferrero’s strategic supplier partners.
• Prepare, issue and update the specifications of new and existing raw materials of competence using the IT system of the company, receiving all the information while maintaining contact with the supplier.
• Lead integration efforts for raw materials for Merger and Acquisitions within North America and support preparation and issuing of the related specifications ensuring compliance with corporate policies.
• Analyzes experimental testing data and taste, suggests modifications, and participates in taste analysis to verify product preservation. Coordinates with the supplier and internal lab for sample preparation.
• Provides the Product Technical Performance Manager & Operational team technical support and guidance for eventual challenges related to raw materials resolution.
• Coordinates laboratory testing to define raw materials characteristics, checks the analysis method, verifies contaminant levels, and controls compliance with specifications. Creates a database of this information to share with the Quality Department.
• Collaborates with the relevant business unit for constant regulatory maintenance (legislation and voluntary standards of the Category), quickly grasping emerging problems or opportunities and sharing information with the lab for analysis.
• Verifies potential improvements of used raw materials through study of technological‑productive interventions among suppliers and alternative raw materials.
• Collaborates with Procurement and Raw Material Quality for scouting and validation of raw materials from alternate vendors as part of de‑risking opportunities within North America.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science required.
• 5‑7 years of relevant experience in a technical field with hands‑on experience, specifically focused on raw materials used in bakery and confectionery space.
• Experience with raw material processes, understanding ingredient functionality and interactions in complex food matrices.
• Knowledge of Food Law and regulatory landscape within North America.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of raw material analysis methods.
• Knowledge of SAP & PLM systems.

The base salary range for this position is $110,000 - $150,658 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

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Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet‑packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture where all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have equal opportunities. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding. Find out more here.

Ferrero N.A. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.