Sensory Panel Manager

Department: Sensory

Location: Virginia (CMP)

Compensation: $90,000 / year

Description
Are you a Sensory Scientist looking to move into a management position? Would you like to work with one of the world’s top CPG brands to help them develop incredible new products?
MMR Research Worldwide has big plans for our US operation, and we’re looking for a Sensory Panel Manager to join one of MMR’s client managed panels.
You will oversee the analytical sensory program on-site for our client, ensuring the delivery of high-quality sensory insights, effective panel operations, and strong client relationships.
This role is based full-time on-site at MMR’s client facility in Richmond, VA, with some flexibility to work remotely on non-panel days/times.
Key Responsibilities
As a Sensory Panel Manager you will be responsible for managing the client relationship, acting as a key point of contact, and taking ownership of the sensory panel activities and strategy.
👨‍🏫 Plan for panel growth, maintenance, and panelist replacement (collaborating with the local sensory team and MMR HR to regularly recruit and train new panelists).
🔍 Recommend methods to address questions and objectives, acting as an internal consultant to the client Sensory team on research design.
📝 Plan, schedule and lead the Descriptive Analysis panel (occasionally covering two sensory panels when the other team member is unavailable).
📈 Monitor the ability and performance of the panel to deliver against the client’s KPIs.
✅ Manage lab inventory of consumables, references and products.
🤝 Work closely with the client Sensory Team to ensure panels are meeting company goals.
👥 Manage one direct report (Sensory Panel Leader).
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• A degree in Food Science, Sensory Science or a related field.
• At least 4-5 years of industry experience.
• Sound knowledge and experience in a range of analytical sensory analysis methods and descriptive panel leadership.
• Efficient in the handling, without leading or biasing, of panel consensus and agreement, and effectively addressing disagreement of attribute definitions, product scores and panelist fatigue.
• Comfortable managing the administrative duties linked to sensory panel activities (scheduling, preparation and facilitation).
• Ability to work independently.
• Previous experience of statistical software to run multivariate analysis and panel performance KPIs analysis.
• High level of competency in sensory-related software (Compusense, RedJade, or similar platforms preferred).
• Strong client management skills.
  

A bit about us and our benefits!
We’re MMR Research Worldwide – the global sensory and consumer research experts behind many of the world’s biggest brands in food, drink, personal and household care. From bold new flavours to breakthrough product experiences, we help turn great ideas into products people truly love.
With teams across the UK, US, Asia and Africa, we blend science, creativity and curiosity to shape the future of everyday products. Join us and you’ll be part of a fast-growing, innovative company where your ideas matter and your career can thrive.
It’s our people that make all of this possible.
We are proud of our collaborative culture which is driven by strong leadership and offers industry-leading training and growth opportunities.
At MMR, we're committed to ensuring the happiness and well-being of each employee, regardless of where they are in the world! We offer a wide range of core and additional benefits. Competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and market-leading training opportunities are standard here. Our vibrant culture, talented team, and focus on employee wellbeing is what makes MMR so special.