Position: Technology & Innovation Manager (m/w/d)
Location: Essen, Germany - Northwestern Germany
About the Employer
Join a pioneering global food company that's redefining what it means to eat sustainably. With a portfolio of beloved international and local brands, this organization leads the way in plant-based and dairy-alternative products across more than 100 countries. Their mission? To make nutritious, affordable, and environmentally friendly food accessible to all.
Your Role: Driving Innovation from Concept to Production
As the Technology & Innovation Manager, you'll be at the forefront of product and process innovation at one of the company's key manufacturing sites. You'll lead a team of specialists, bridge the gap between R&D and operations, and ensure that new ideas are transformed into scalable, efficient, and high-quality production processes.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about food technology, continuous improvement, and team development.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead & Inspire : Manage and develop a team of four T&I specialists, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
* Innovation Enablement : Evaluate how manufacturing capabilities impact new product development and contribute to business case planning.
* Capacity Planning : Map and expand production capabilities to support innovation pipelines.
* Technical Expertise : Provide deep technical support to ensure operational excellence and seamless integration of new processes.
* Change Management : Oversee the implementation of process changes, including operator training and risk mitigation.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration : Act as the key interface between production, engineering, and quality teams during process or equipment changes.
* Performance Optimization : Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to product, process, and packaging before full-scale production.
* Standardization & Strategy : Define process standards, prioritize initiatives, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
What You Bring
* A degree in Food Science, Bioengineering, or a related technical field - or equivalent vocational training with advanced certification.
* Proven leadership experience in the food manufacturing sector.
* Familiarity with dairy or plant-based product development is a strong advantage.
* Strong project management and stakeholder coordination skills.
* A strategic thinker with a hands-on mentality and a drive for results.
* Fluent in both German and English, with excellent communication skills.
* High technical affinity and a passion for process optimization.
What's in It for You
* Competitive salary with annual performance-based bonus
* 30 days of paid vacation
* Company-sponsored pension scheme
* Smartphone for business and personal use
* Weekly wellness perks, including free massages
* On-site amenities: fresh fruit, drinks, snacks, and coffee
* Bike leasing program
* Paid parental leave (up to 12 weeks)
* Free parking in a dedicated facility
* Opportunities for personal and professional growth