Key Responsibilities
R&D Process Optimization
Translate complex R&D requirements (formulation, raw material management, compliance, and specification management) into functional PLM system designs.
Streamline product data inheritance from initial bench-top prototyping through to commercialization and scale-up.
Standardize raw material and packaging specifications to ensure global consistency and reuse across multiple brands.
System Architecture & Implementation
Lead end-to-end PLM implementations, upgrades, or migrations specifically tailored to CPG R&D workflows.
Design integration strategies linking PLM with adjacent systems like ERP (e.g., SAP S/4HANA), LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems), CAD, and Regulatory Databases.
Configure and customize PLM modules for recipe management, labelling, and trial management.
Strategic Advisory & Governance
Define the long-term PLM roadmap for the R&D division, aligning digital tools with corporate sustainability and innovation goals.
Establish robust data governance policies to maintain the integrity of intellectual property, allergen tracking, and compliance data.
Partner with cross-functional leadership in Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless data handoffs.
Change Management & Adoption
Conduct workshops and training sessions for scientists, packaging engineers, and regulatory specialists to drive user adoption.
Create comprehensive documentation, including business blueprints, functional specifications, and user manuals.
Required Qualifications & Skills
Experience & Education
Education: Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Food Science, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
Experience: 7+ years of experience in PLM consulting or IT business analysis, with at least 4+ years specifically focused on CPG R&D environments (Food & Beverage, ).
Proven Track Record: At least 2 full-lifecycle PLM implementations in a senior or lead capacity.
Technical Expertise
PLM Platforms: Deep expertise in one or more major CPG-focused PLM platforms: SAP PLM (RD&E / Specification Management), Oracle Agile PLM for Process, Siemens Teamcenter, Infor Optiva, or Selerant Devex.
CPG Process Knowledge: Strong understanding of recipe/formula management, nutritional calculations, ingredient declarations, substance restrictions, and allergen tracking.
Regulatory Awareness: Familiarity with global compliance frameworks (e.g., FDA, EFSA, REACH) and how they integrate into PLM workflows.
Soft Skills
Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to speak both "scientist" and "developer" languages.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Agile/Scrum methodologies in a project delivery environment.
Knowledge of sustainability metrics tracking (e.g., carbon footprint, recyclable packaging data) within PLM.