Do you love nutrition and pets?
We may have the perfect job for you.

Product development, innovation, and happy pets too.

We are looking for a Manager, Product Innovation and Development to join our team at our Research and Innovation centre. In this position, you will work with the Director, Core Product Development and Innovation to manage on-time launches of new products and develop and validate scientifically proven diets and treats that are Biologically Appropriate and meet cost targets. It goes without saying, this is a high visibility role that directly influences the well-being of pets around the world. We feel more like a team than a traditional research department and our culture is one of respect, integrity, and passion. You don't have to have pets to succeed here, but we’re pretty sure you’ll want one!

The Manager, Product Innovation and Development works from our industry leading manufacturing facility in Auburn, KY and reports to the Director, Core Product Development and Innovation. We welcome all candidates willing to relocate and will provide a competitive relocation package.

You’ll have opportunity to:

• Lead the on-time execution of technical product development (new formulas, ingredients, performance testing and packaging).
• Participate in development of technical content of product concept documents.
• Exercise autonomy in product development, and make decisions in partnership with the Director, of Core Product Development and Innovation, and collaboratively with our Research and Innovation and Marketing teams.
• Own product innovations including product proposals, test runs and prototyping.
• Work closely with the Director, Core Product Development and Innovation to execute iterative processes for idea refinement with the goal of viability for future production development and report progress to the larger Product Development team.
• Learn, develop, and implement new technologies and methods.
• Manage technical product development and innovation requests from marketing team members.
• Writing of protocols, tear downs/product cuttings of competitive products and interpretation of internal and published scientific data to progress knowledge of products, proteins, and trends.
• Partner with research team to ensure the accurate dissemination of research findings into products.
• Ensure accurate and efficient planning and management of resources to meet schedules and coordinate departmental functions.
• Develop a high level of understanding of the pet food industry, attending forums or seminars related to the development of new trends or technologies within the pet food realm and reporting back to R&I team regarding findings.
• Perform other tasks as required or assigned.

Background & Experience:

• 3-5 years related experience in a product development role.
• Bachelor of Science Degree in related field (Food Science, Animal Science, Biology, etc.). Masters’ degree considered an asset.
• Previous experience in a consumer packaged goods, food, or product development setting – this is a hands on role, raw ingredient handling and processing experience is an asset.
• Knowledge of processing processes including extrusion, freeze-dry, retort packaging and/or canning processes in a food industry preferred.
• Ability to influence project stakeholders while demonstrating diplomacy and professionalism.
• Experience working cross-functionally and collaboratively within a high performing team.
• Detail oriented, with a good ability to review documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Discrete in handling confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information.
• Comfortable leading presentations/meetings with occasional travel to other Champion Petfoods locations required.

Keeping pets happy and healthy since 1985.

We are Champion Petfoods, a crew of pet enthusiasts looking to better the quality of food for our four-legged friends around the world. With over thirty years of growth in the pet food industry, our ORIJEN and ACANA brands have defined our vision of paving the way for healthier pets and families. If this excites you as much as it does us, then we would love to hear from you!

Come as you are.

We value diversity in all forms and know the power it can bring. Workplace equality allows for creative ideas to bloom, diverse points of views to be heard, and increases overall happiness. That sounds pretty good to us.

Champion is an equal opportunity employer. Regardless of your race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, or any other creed, you are wanted here.