Manager of Projects and Technology​/Product Development Manager in Newport

Job Title

Hours:

8:00am-5:00pm

• Lead high-priority product development and technology projects, driving visibility through tools such as Gantt charts and project plans.
• Lead a small technical team, including project management, process engineering, and packaging engineering resources.
• Manage product development projects from concept through commercial launch.
• Ensure projects stay on time, on budget, and aligned with quality standards.
• Coordinate cross-functionally with Operations, QA, Marketing, Procurement, Sales, and external vendors.
• Improve project management processes, including stage-gate discipline and project governance.
• Provide technical guidance related to manufacturing, packaging, product development, and process improvements.
• Support budgeting, career development, and team leadership across local and Kentucky operations.
• Serve as a technical partner and buffer between Sales and scientists, helping translate customer needs into feasible technical solutions.
• Delegate and guide plant-level project managers on initiatives such as line extensions and other priority projects.

Food experience is critical; beverage-only experience may be limiting. Open to candidates who may not currently hold a manager title if they have strong technical food manufacturing and project leadership experience.

• Project management experience
• Technical food manufacturing knowledge
• Leadership and team management experience
• 7-10+ years of experience in food manufacturing, CPG, or R&D
• Experience leading both projects and people
• Strong technical capability with excellent organization and follow-through
• Commercial product launch experience
• Comfortable working in both plant and office environments

• Approximately 10-20% travel