The Specialist - International Culinary Innovation supports the development of new and / or the enhancement of existing products to achieve Wendy's consistent same store sales goals. Support includes product tastings, day to day ingredient prep, overall test kitchen support, sensory panels and evaluations and data collection. This position is also responsible for the preparation of new production samples for evaluation and review. Coordinate with cross functional partners to ensure products and kitchen contractors are scheduled during International culinary events. Execute innovation process to support delivery of new products as directed by International Innovation Culinary Manager.

Due to the nature of the role primarily supporting and working within our test kitchen, the selected candidate should expect to be in the office 4 days a week.

Responsibilities

• Supports International Culinary Manager in prototype development of new products and enhancement of existing products in conjunction with cross functional support and supplier collaboration.
• Perform tests and collect data on ingredients, products, sensory, equipment and procedures. Compose spreadsheets, reports and documents to help inform fact-based decisions. Communicate finding to suppliers and cross-functional team members for successful product launch.
• Manage lab calendar, prep and food execution for all international functions including WCAP, WMAB, Food Forum, Photo Shoots, Sensory panels, Media Events and Supplier Visits. This includes recruiting internal and external technical experts to train the team and strengthen the ability to execute events on time and in a fun, food-forward way.
• Manage projects, relationships and expectations with cross-functional teams and supplier partners to meet business objectives and timelines. Collaborate with brand marketing managers and culinary innovation leadership to ensure that development priorities deliver against brand strategy and that marketing positioning can inform product development.

• Bachelor's in Food Science, Culinary Arts or related field, preferred
• Minimum 3-5 years combined experience in restaurants, product development and education
• Proficient computer skills, Outlook, Excel, Word, Powerpoint
• Physically able to complete product prep and safely operation and clean restaurant grade equipment, which may include, but not limited to, lifting up to 40 lbs, standing, walking, bending stooping, and reaching overhead
• Creative thinker with ability to achieve results in a dynamic environment
• Strong organizational, communication and presentation skills
• Passion for food

The base pay range for this position is listed below. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and budget for the open position and also may vary depending on the candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, among other relevant factors. This range does not include an estimated value for any benefits, bonus, or other incentives that may be applicable based on position.* The target annual bonus for this role is 7.5% of annualized base salary, based on actual company and personal performance. Director and above roles are also eligible to participate in the Company’s long-term incentive award program.

Our square burgers make us different and so do our benefits! Our restaurant support roles are eligible for a wide array of benefits, including things such as parental leave, free EAP sessions, company 401k match and other great offerings. For more details about our benefits, including an overview of eligibility and terms for certain benefits, please visit our benefits website,www.wendysbenefits.com.*

• NOTE: Wendy’s benefits, bonus, and other incentives are governed by the applicable legal plans and policies and, where appropriate, may be subject to Board approval an individual award agreement terms. Those documents supersede all other information regarding Wendy’s benefits, bonus, and other incentives. Wendy’s retains the right to amend or terminate its plans and policies at its sole discretion, in accordance with applicable plans, policies and laws.

Education: High School Diploma/GED

Travel: 10%

Pay Range: $28 - $48 Hourly