Sr. Director of Research & Development

@ Shearer's Foods

Sr. Director of Research & Development

Location: Massillon, Ohio (Hybrid Schedule)

Role Overview

• Lead R&D for a fast-paced, private label and co-manufacturing snack business.
• Oversee salty snacks, cookies & crackers, and better-for-you platforms.
• Deliver consumer-relevant innovation, speed-to-market, and customer trust.

Your Seat at the Table:

• Define and execute a branded R&D strategy aligned with market demands.
• Translate insights into customized product solutions for retail partners.
• Develop R&D pipeline balancing speed-to-market and technical feasibility.
• Collaborate with sales and retail customers for innovation opportunities.
• Drive core portfolio support and innovation activation.
• Maintain and optimize R&D systems and documentation.
• Build strategic partnerships with suppliers, flavor houses, and universities.
• Lead cross-functional commercialization teams ensuring timely product launches.
• Create gold standard recipes, conduct sensory evaluations, and ensure compliance.
• Mentor and build a high-performing, agile R&D team.
• Prioritize and allocate resources efficiently for company initiatives.

What you Bring to the Table:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in food science, Food Engineering, or related discipline.
• 15+ years of progressive R&D leadership in CPG with private label and co-manufacturing experience.
• Deep technical expertise in salty snacks processing technologies.
• Proven track record of launching successful products across multiple retailers.
• Strong leadership, communication, and influence across all levels.

We Offer a Feast of Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and Flexible Spending Account.
• Retirement Savings Plan with Match, Disability Insurance, and critical illness coverage.
• Employee Assistance Plan and community volunteering opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Shearer’s Snacks is committed to equal employment opportunities.

Please note: Recruitment agencies are not accepted for this role.

Key skills/competency

• R&D Leadership
• Food Science
• Product Innovation
• Private Label
• Co-manufacturing
• Team Mentorship
• Strategic Planning
• Regulatory Compliance
• Process Optimization
• Consumer Trends