Excellence & Innovation Manager

The Excellence and Innovation Manager will play a dual role in ensuring the smooth and efficient receiving of raw ingredients, while also spearheading process improvements and ingredient innovation. This position is key in ensuring that all raw materials meet quality standards and are seamlessly integrated into our production process. The ideal candidate will have experience in supply chain management, food safety, and product innovation, combined with a passion for making a difference in the fight against malnutrition.

• Demonstrate reliability through exceptional attendance, punctuality, and dependability.

• Treat everyone with respect, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Own your performance — take pride in your strengths and actively work on areas for improvement.
• Embrace teamwork by sharing knowledge, supporting colleagues, and collaborating effectively.
• Communicate openly — ask questions when you need clarity, and share information to help others grow.
• Uphold high standards in food safety, product quality, and workplace safety by speaking up and taking responsibility.
• Take initiative — approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset and avoid a "that’s not my job" mentality.
• Lead by example — be part of the culture you want to see; be the “they” who make things better.

• Foster a jerk-free workplace — kindness, professionalism, and accountability are non-negotiable.

Receiving Management & Quality Control

• Receive Raw Ingredients: Manage the timely and accurate receipt of all raw ingredients, including peanuts, oils, and other essential components for production.

  
  
• Quality Assurance: Oversee the inspection and testing of all received raw materials to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines (FDA, USDA, etc.).
  
  
• Inventory Management: Maintain accurate records of inventory levels, track product expiration dates, and ensure FIFO (First-In-First-Out) inventory practices are followed.
  
  

• Supplier Relationships: Collaborate with suppliers to address quality concerns, delays, and ensure the consistent supply of raw materials.

  
  

Process & Ingredient Innovation

• Process Improvement: Work closely with the operations team to improve manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and optimize the use of raw materials.

  
  
• Pilot Testing: Conduct small-scale trials for new ingredients and processes, analyzing results and providing actionable feedback.
  
  
• Trend Monitoring: Stay informed about the latest trends in food production, sustainability, and ingredient innovation, and bring forward ideas for incorporation into production.
  
  
• Collaboration with Production Team: Work closely with the production team to ensure that ingredient availability, quality, and consistency meet production needs.
  
  

• Sustainability Initiatives: Contribute to ongoing sustainability efforts by researching alternative ingredients, waste reduction practices, and eco-friendly sourcing.

• 5 years of experience in a receiving, supply chain, or food production management role, preferably in a non-profit or social enterprise setting.

  
  
• Demonstrated experience in product development, process innovation, and ingredient research
  
  
• Knowledge of food safety standards, quality control processes, and regulatory compliance (FDA, USDA).
  
  

• Prior experience in inventory management and supplier relationship management is a plus.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

  
  
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a focus on continuous improvement.
  
  
• Proficient in using inventory management software and ERP systems.
  
  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  
  
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and efficiency.
  
  

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.