Innovation & Science Manager

CoreFX Ingredients is a US-based manufacturer specializing in developing innovative nutritional ingredients that delivers on efficacy and functionality. With facilities in Orangeville, IL, and Big Bend, WI and headquarter in Evanston, IL, CoreFX is committed to advancing nutrient optimization technologies that enhance transport, release, absorption, stability, and functionality in food, beverage and dietary supplement applications.

Our mission is to provide customer- and performance-inspired, service-driven, authentic, and innovative ingredient and nutrient solutions for success. We achieve this by creating systems that optimize nutrient performance and delivery, guided by creativity, clarity, integrity, and an entrepreneurial spirit

JOB PURPOSE AND REPORTING STRUCTURE: Provide leadership and guidance to the R&D Lab Technicians and Scientists, and support the product development and innovation processes—both internally within CoreFX Ingredients and externally with clients—while driving advancements in nutrient transport, delivery and release optimization to support the organization’s growth and strategy.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILTIES include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

• Provide daily leadership to the R&D Lab Technicians and Scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence.
• Manage projects from customer brief through commercialization, with a focus on enhancing bioavailability, stability, and delivery of nutrients in finished applications.
• Complete customer briefs to meet nutritional, cost, and deadline expectations.
• Create new solutions designed to optimize nutrient transport, delivery and release (e.g., absorption, dispersibility, stability, targeted release).
• Analyze, document, and publish scientific data and findings in clear formats for both internal knowledge sharing and external communication (e.g., customer reports, white papers, technical presentations, or peer-reviewed publications).
• Troubleshoot and revise formulas to ensure consistent nutrient and functionality performance when raw material sourcing issues arise.
• Assist with high-severity requests and issue escalations as needed.
• Perform lab work for assigned projects (spray drying, coating, blending, applications, delivery system prototyping).
• Generate accurate nutritional data and product specifications, with attention to nutrient integrity and compliance.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of U.S. Food Labeling Laws and Regulations, especially as they relate to nutrient claims and delivery systems.
• Collaborate with Sales, Production, and QA to align product innovation with business and client needs.
• Interact directly with customers to develop trusted relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring solutions that enhance nutrient effectiveness and consumer benefits.
• Clearly communicate the progress of monthly/quarterly/annual initiatives to both internal and external stakeholders.

Travel: Periodic, including tradeshows, customer visits, and manufacturing plant support.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry or equivalent. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of product development experience in food manufacturing. Managerial experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience in lab and/or pilot plant environments.
• Proven R&D experience in food and dietary supplement applications, with emphasis on delivery systems for dry ingredients, lipids, or nutrients.
• Demonstrated ability to design systems that enhance nutrient performance and communicate these solutions to all stakeholders.
• Experience in creating client-focused solutions based on customer needs.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects at a time while paying strict attention to detail.
• Track record of team participation, success, and values.
• Excellent listening, presentation, and communication skills.