.SummaryLeads GFMX Product Development projects and technical initiatives to develop new and optimized products for key clients that support the overall Griffith Laboratories business strategy.Major Duties & Responsibilities:Functions as a lead scientist to develop new and optimized products in execution of technical activities that support key clients and the overall Griffith Laboratories business strategy.Applies scientific and engineering principles in research, development, production technology, quality control, packaging, processing and utilization of foods.Works with considerable independence, exercising ingenuity and judgment in the approach to tasks.Responsible for the design, planning, execution and reporting of experiments and projects of considerable complexity.Leads multiple priorities, projects and timelines currently.Uses technical and problem solving skills to approach complex projects.Acts as a mentor to junior scientists.Communicates project progresses internally and externally with clients and suppliers.Completes product formulation activities to drive efficient production of safe and regulatory compliant food products.Implements product development processes to improve efficiencies and effectiveness of function.Maintains all required laboratory records, using electronic systems and written protocols.Assists in innovation activities that support the long-term strategy of the organization.Functions as a category ingredient specialist to provide consultation to colleagues on appropriate current materials and suppliers to use to meet technical and commercial requirements.Participates in cross-functional task forces to support company initiatives.May lead functional initiative or an ongoing core process.Represents product development in professional business relationships with GLUS client and supplier base, academia, government and corporations in the food industry.Responsible for maintaining and enhancing the security of all information regarding product formulas and related confidential information.Key challenge in this position is to foresee and act before an unstable market situation.This position is responsible for selecting the best procurement alternative along with establishing the adequate commercial and logistics conditions.Support procurement problems and opportunities by replacing non-compliant vendors.Knowledge and Experience:Minimum level of education: Food Science, Food Technology, Food Chemistry or related technical degree.Minimum of 8 years of Research & Product Development experience within the food industry.Experience should include time with a retail or foodservice manufacturer and extensive experience in working directly with customers and manufacturing facilities.Formulation of food products (Strong focus on meat pastes: deli meats, chorizo, preformed products, etc.)