Sr. R&D Manager, Product Development & Innovation

Company Background

Alamance Foods is recognized as a leading manufacturer of aerosol whipped cream, flavored drinks, freeze pops, and bottled water, offering beloved brands like Classic Cream, Fun Pops, Coffee Toppers, Whipt, and Groovy Glacier. We produce, pack, and ship private labels based on customer-specific needs. An innovative company with proven experience in creating exciting new products that redefine what is possible in the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

Position Opportunity

We are seeking a Senior Manager – R&D & Commercialization to lead product development, scale-up, and commercialization activities across Alamance Foods’ portfolio of dairy, non-dairy, beverage, aerosol, frozen novelty, and adjacent food categories.

This individual will be responsible for managing projects from concept through commercialization, partnering closely with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Procurement, Sales, and customers to successfully launch innovative products while meeting quality, timing, and financial objectives.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead new product development and commercialization projects from concept through launch.
• Develop formulations, process parameters, product specifications, and commercialization plans.
• Manage pilot plant trials, plant validations, first production runs, and startup activities.
• Collaborate with Operations and Engineering to ensure products are manufacturable and scalable.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts related to formulation, processing, shelf life, and product performance.
• Support customer innovation initiatives and technical presentations.
• Conduct root cause investigations related to consumer complaints, product quality, and commercialization challenges.
• Partner with Quality and Regulatory teams to ensure compliance with FDA, SQF, labeling, and food safety requirements.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting aggressive commercialization timelines.
• Mentor junior R&D staff and provide technical leadership across cross-functional teams.