Sr. Project Manager

• Lead end‑to‑end execution of assigned NPD projects from concept approval through commercialization, following the AFNA NPD stage‑gate process
• Develop and manage integrated project plans covering scope, timeline, resources, dependencies, and deliverables across all NPD stages
• Proactively identify, assess, and manage project risks, issues, and trade‑offs to ensure successful project outcomes
• Drive disciplined execution in a highly cross‑functional environment involving Marketing/Category Management, R&D, Engineering, Manufacturing, FSQA, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and Finance
• Ensure projects comply with AFNA’s NPD governance, documentation, approvals, and review requirements
• Prepare and lead project reviews, gate meetings, and executive updates with clear, data‑driven communication
• Partner with the PMO to apply standardized tools, templates, and best practices across NPD projects
• Support audits, assessments, and post‑launch reviews to drive learning and continuous improvement
• Serve as the primary point of coordination for cross-functional project teams, ensuring clarity of roles, responsibilities, and deliverables
• Support Category Managers by translating strategic direction into executable project plans while maintaining clear ownership boundaries
• Facilitate alignment across multiple plants, functions, and external partners as required
• Contributes to the ongoing evolution of the AFNA NPD project management framework to improve speed, clarity, and execution effectiveness
• Mentor and coach project managers and cross-functional team members on NPD project management practices
• Identify opportunities to improve communication, efficiency, and decision-making within the NPD process

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Business, Operations, or a related field
• 4-6 years of project management experience, including significant experience leading complex, cross-functional NPD projects
• Demonstrated experience working within a structured stage‑gate or governance-based NPD process
• Strong understanding of food manufacturing, CPG, and/or foodservice product development environments
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, matrixed organization
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments (food safety, quality, regulatory compliance)
• Experience working across multiple manufacturing plants and supply chains
• Demonstrated experience driving process improvement within project management or NPD systems

PMP or equivalent project management certification