Director, R&D – US

Barry Callebaut is a global organization poised for growth; a company that has embraced the vision to delight its customers while out-performing its competitors, a business that is committed to sustainability, has innovation in its DNA, is a leader in complex manufacturing and supply chain solutions and is focused on being a best-in-class employer. Barry Callebaut seeks diverse and passionate people who thrive in a dynamic environment, focused on continuous learning, living BC’s Values, and of course, loving chocolate.

Under the responsibility of the VP R&D Americas, the Director of R&D will be responsible for managing the R&D activities for a country or sub-region, in this case, the US. They will mainly oversee and coordinate the R&D project managers, specialists, technologists, and technicians, as well as the projects and product development based in the assigned area. The Director will also provide guidance to Customer R&D personnel involved with customers and will be actively involved in some internal strategic initiatives. Additionally, the Director will be part of the Americas R&D Leadership team.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Management: Oversee the R&D personnel and projects within the assigned country or sub-region. Administer, strategize, and provide technical direction to the on-site R&D group(s).
• Team Development: Coach and develop the entire R&D team to achieve high performance and success.
• Customer R&D: Guidance to the Customer R&D people and directly involved with customers .
• Technical Support: Offer necessary technical support to vendors, clients, and operations in case of product-related problems.
• Project Participation: Actively participate in various Research and Development projects and/or internal strategic projects beyond R&D..
• Employee Development: Work on individual development plans to foster the growth of employees. Be an ambassador for diversity and inclusion.
• Client Relations: Ensure the development of internal and external client relationships and maintain effective communication.
• Collaboration: Work closely with Sales and Customer R&D teams to support successful product development, addressing customer needs and engaging in customer interactions as required.
• Strategy Contribution: Contribute to setting the R&D strategy for the Americas as a member of the R&D Leadership team.
• Mentoring and Coaching: Mentor and coach employees to ensure team effectiveness and engagement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promote information and knowledge sharing with others.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives for continuous improvement in processes, technologies, and organizational aspects.
• Sustainability: Drive all sustainability projects and be an ambassador for overall sustainability.

About You

• Experience: At least 10 years of progressive management responsibility in the food industry, preferably with chocolate/cocoa experience.
• R&D development experience
• Language Proficiency: Fluent in English.
• Education: Master’s degree in Food Technology Sciences, Food Engineering, or Food Science, or a relevant bachelor’s degree coupled with relevant experience.
• Industry Knowledge: Extensive experience in the food industry, demonstrating leadership abilities.
• Personal Attributes: Resolute, capable of working under pressure and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent teamwork, communication, and interpersonal relation skills.
• Analytical Abilities: Strong analytical mindset
• Flexibility: Flexibility and willingness to travel as needed.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills, including external customer communication.
• Software Knowledge: Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google suite, Salesforce, and SAP.
• Travel requirements: up to 30% of time
• Commercial business sense is required

What You Can Expect From Barry Callebaut

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Paid time off, plus 12 paid holidays, plus your birthday off
• Environment that welcomes workplace flexibility
• An atmosphere where diversity is embraced, and inclusivity is second nature. We call it #OneBC! Just ask our champions with the Americas Women’s Forum and the Racial Equality Forum!
• Ability to grow personally and professionally within an organization that values development and internal career growth
• Be part of our mission in making sustainability the norm through Forever Chocolate with priorities centered around prospering farmers, zero child labor, carbon and forest positive, and creating 100% sustainable ingredients in all of our products.

Expected salary range: $161K – $215K USD annually