R&D Processing Associate Principal Engineer (FTC) in Leicester

Temporary role / Fixed Term Contract. The purpose of this assignment is to drive progress on key work streams associated with the Global Seasoning Behaviour Prediction Tool (SBPT). The work will involve collaboration with the Global Seasoning Process team and Flavour and Seasoning Technical SMEs in the development of new SBPT capability and working with core seasoning suppliers to elevate their capability in the application of SBPT to seasoning development.

Key outcomes of the role include elevation of the program, continuous improvement of predictive capability, execution of training for internal and external seasoning developers, and collaboration with S&T and Process to develop and execute new models that will support the PepsiCo Transformation agenda.

Objectives of the role include:

• Development and deployment of a global Slurry seasoning SBPT model.
• Driving collaboration with Region SBPT leads in the creation of a community of practice to drive best practice in creating and driving partnership with Supply Chain and Operations.
• Supporting Pepsi Region testing hubs in training and equipment capex submissions.
• Supporting Flavour and Seasonings Technical SMEs in supplier forums.

Responsibilities:

• Design, interpret & deliver pragmatic solutions & recommendations backed by strong technical and analytical data, with a high degree of attention to detail & consultation with Global & Regional SMEs.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships across Global, Local R&D, LTR and non-R&D functions as necessary to support business growth initiatives.
• Utilise strong communication skills to leverage vendor relationships, and internal partner interactions to engage with the business.
• Provide project management insight, creating the foundation for innovative solutions in support of business objectives for productivity initiatives.
• Provision of regular progress updates, timely communication of technical challenges and align projects next steps with key cross-functional project team & project stakeholders: SC, Key Flavour Houses, Global R&D Platform, Functions & Commercial teams.
• Take full ownership and accountability of the technical activities leading to timely project delivery.

The role impacts the $1BN Food spend globally on seasonings & flavours. The role includes management accountability for 1 direct report.

Qualifications:

• Deep understanding of seasoning formulation as it impacts in-plant performance and behaviour throughout the supply chain.
• Minimum of 6 years’ previous experience in FMCG R&D, product/technology development or productivity roles preferably in Foods to demonstrate established competence at product and process development.
• Graduate in a Food Scientific or related discipline or equivalent.
• Understanding of Food Science, Food Design, Food Engineering and Manufacturing.
• Self-starter, self-motivating: able to balance competing priorities without losing momentum and manage uncertainty and complexity in fast-evolving FMCG environments.
• Established project management skills to effectively & efficiently drive multiple projects across different markets.
• Strives for high standards, seeks innovative solutions, drives continuous improvement of products and processes and demonstrates a high degree of attention to detail.
• In-depth analytical skills to interpret complex data and distil into meaningful information e.g. interpreting process data, experimental design and statistical inference to find actionable pragmatic solutions.
• Good understanding/appreciation of the broader business environment and application of technical and commercial knowledge during project execution.
• Proven ability to deliver results the right way.
• High degree of attention to detail, highly numerate and computer literate (Microsoft Office).
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence with integrity through persuasive communication to win support at more senior levels within R&D and Supply Chain and to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders from different levels, backgrounds and cultures.
• Ability to create and use networks to actively seek and take advantage of ideas, best practice and solutions developed elsewhere.
• Contribute to and foster a technical excellence and creative environment to build PepsiCo’s competitive advantage.
• Fosters a positive, inclusive work environment where people feel respected and valued for their contributions, especially capable of working cross-culturally.
• Supports people to build their skills and empowers others to act and think in ways that will get the job done.
• Willing to work flexible hours on occasion and travel as necessary.

Differentiating Competencies Required:

• Developing & maintaining good working relationships with a portfolio of business partners across technical and operational functions both globally & locally across R&D and non-R&D functions managing and delivering on multiple stakeholder expectations whilst balancing the long and short-term needs of the business are critical requirements of this role.
• Ability to focus on the right results but also doing it the right way and bringing others with you managing complexity and adapting changing priorities i.e. comfortable in the “Grey” & working across functional lines.
• Role model for teamwork and across all partnerships displaying leadership and interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team environment.
• Multicultural background or multicultural sensitivity & flexibility & ability to bring others with you.