Senior Manager Chocolate

Posted Date: Feb 15, 2026

Requisition Number: 127683

Job Title: Senior Manager – Premium Chocolate

Summary: The Senior Manager – Premium Chocolate leads the marketing and product strategy for Hershey’s premium chocolate segment in the U.S. This segment includes higher‑end offerings that command premium pricing or target sophisticated adult palates, including Hershey‑owned premium brands and premium sub‑lines of core brands (for example, single‑origin Hershey’s bars, the Reserve line, or an acquired premium brand such as Scharffen Berger or Bark Thins if in portfolio).

The Sr. Manager’s mission is to grow Hershey’s presence in the premium chocolate category, which faces competition from gourmet chocolatiers and up‑market brands, by leveraging Hershey’s strengths while elevating quality perceptions. The role manages product development (flavor innovations, packaging, sourcing stories), brand positioning, and marketing programs to attract consumers willing to pay more for indulgent or higher‑quality chocolate experiences. It treats premium chocolate as a distinct business within Hershey’s portfolio, requiring entrepreneurial drive and alignment with Hershey’s broader brand strategy.

• Premium Portfolio Strategy – Define the strategy for Hershey’s premium chocolate portfolio; analyze the segment’s size, growth, key players, and identify opportunities. Clarify positioning and establish pricing, placement, and differentiation guidelines.
• Product Innovation & Quality Management – Lead development of new premium chocolate products and upgrades to existing ones, collaborating with R&D on recipes, procurement on sourcing (e.g., single‑origin cacao, Rainforest Alliance certified cocoa), and ensuring packaging communicates premium cues.
• Brand Building & Storytelling – Develop brand positioning and storytelling for premium products, create marketing content that highlights craftsmanship, ethics, and limited availability.
• Marketing & Channel Activation – Plan and execute marketing programs targeting premium chocolate buyers, adjust media strategies to digital foodie channels, use influencer marketing, attend events, and guide the sales team on premium distribution channels.
• Performance Tracking & Course Correction – Manage business performance of the premium segment, track sales, profit margins, market share, and adjust tactics based on data‑driven insights.

• Category Insight – Premium Confections:
  Deep understanding of premium chocolate consumer drivers, trends, and purchase factors.
• Product Development & Sensory Acumen:
  Strong sense for product quality and taste; ability to collaborate with food scientists and maintain high standards.
• Marketing Segmentation & Storytelling:
  Ability to craft tailored marketing and narrative for luxury or authenticity.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset:
  Proactive, creative, willing to try non‑traditional approaches, and advocate for resources.
• Analytical & Financial
  
  Skills:
  
  Comfort with price elasticity, cost structures, profitability, and scenario planning.

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or Food Science is required. An MBA or specialization in luxury marketing is a plus. 7+ years of brand management or marketing experience, largely in premium/luxury consumer products, with a track record of successful campaigns and brand growth.
• Hands‑on experience with product development cycles, launching new products, and managing one or more junior team members.
• Passion for chocolate and confectionery.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual’s race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans.

You may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our online application process as a result of a disability. You can request an accommodation via phone or email.

To request an accommodation via phone, please call +1 877‑804‑1794 and leave a voicemail with your contact information. You may also email a request for accommodation to  Please be sure to include “Accommodation Needed” in the subject line.

Nearest Major Market: Harrisburg