Associate Innovation Planning Manager - Amazon

Associate Innovation Manager – Amazon (dComm)

The Associate Innovation Manager – Amazon (dComm) owns the end-to-end execution of the innovation pipeline for eCommerce, ensuring seamless delivery from concept to launch and post-launch performance. The role sits at the interface of Supply Chain, Marketing, R&D, CD, and Amazon, translating innovation plans into executable actions that deliver on time, in full, to inventory, speed to market, and profitability.

By combining supply chain expertise, Amazon execution knowledge, and process innovation (e.g., Handshake automation), this role ensures that innovations are launched efficiently, supported with the right inventory and forecasting, and optimized for Amazon performance.

The role plays a critical part in driving dCommerce growth, improving customer experience, and enabling scalable, data-driven innovation processes.

You're a dot connector

• Bridge Supply Chain, R&D, CD, Planning, and Amazon
• Translate innovation requirements into executable supply chain actions
• Align stakeholders on timelines, risks, and trade-offs

You're a delivery owner

• Own E2E innovation execution from Product ideation→ B2R → FDTC → launch
• Ensure on time, in full, to inventory, readiness, dispatch rate targets
• Drive accountability across all stakeholders

You're a change maker

• Identify process gaps and implement scalable solutions
• Lead automation initiatives (e.g., Handshake file)
• Simplify workflows and reduce manual effort

You're data-driven

• Use data to manage pipeline, risks, and performance
• Improve forecast accuracy and launch outcomes
• Track KPIs and drive continuous improvement

You love to win, and have fun doing it

• Deliver high-impact results in a fast-paced environment
• Own innovation success end-to-end
• Bring energy, ownership, and a growth mindset

Innovation Pipeline Management

• Own and manage innovation projects end-to-end from concept through launch and post-launch evaluation
• Ensure all supply chain components (sourcing, capacity, procurement, inventory) are aligned for launch
• Deliver innovation on time, in full, to inventory, readiness, and dispatch rate targets

Amazon Launch Execution

• Lead B2R (Born-to-Run) and FDTC execution for Amazon launches
• Ensure ASIN readiness, Vendor Central setup, and launch compliance
• Partner with Amazon on forecasting, launch prioritization, and delivery appointments

Transition Management (Hard & Soft)

• Manage hard and soft transitions for innovation and portfolio changes
• Ensure seamless runout of old SKUs and onboarding of new SKUs
• Minimize service risk, excess inventory, and disruption

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Partner with:
• R&D (product readiness + testing)
• Planning (forecast + supply positioning)
• CD/Brand (launch alignment)
• Procurement / Factories / 3PM
• Strategic & Innovation Planning
• Drive clarity on timelines, risks, and dependencies

Innovation Risk & Readiness Management

• Identify and mitigate risks across:
• Supply chain readiness
• Packaging / compliance
• Forecast / demand signals
• Ensure innovation meets all operational and customer requirements

Handshake / Process Automation

• Own and evolve Handshake file and innovation tracking tools
• Reduce manual inputs and improve visibility across stakeholders
• Drive efficiency and standardization across innovation processes

Portfolio & Performance Optimization

• Support SKU rationalization and portfolio simplification
• Drive Gross Margin improvement through innovation planning decisions
• Balance complexity vs growth opportunities

Data, Reporting & Governance

• Track innovation KPIs:
• On time, in full, to inventory
• Readiness
• Dispatch Rate
• B2R timing
• Provide regular updates to leadership on pipeline health and risks
• Maintain accurate and accessible tracking systems

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field
• 2–5 years experience in Supply Chain / Innovation / eCommerce / Operations
• Strong project management and stakeholder leadership skills
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management abilities
• Experience working cross-functionally (R&D, Planning, CD, Amazon preferred)

Pay:
The pay range for this position is $88,600 to $133,000. Unilever takes into…