Innovation Project Manager

Job Description

Innovation Project Manager

We are seeking an experienced Innovation Project Manager to lead product and packaging innovation initiatives from concept through market launch. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong project management capabilities and extensive experience within Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) or Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) environments. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation, manage project timelines, mitigate risks, and ensure successful execution of business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end product and packaging innovation projects from concept development through commercialization.
• Facilitate project kick-offs and ensure alignment on scope, objectives, timelines, and deliverables.
• Coordinate with cross-functional stakeholders across marketing, R&D, packaging, operations, and commercial teams.
• Monitor project progress, milestones, risks, and dependencies to ensure timely delivery.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and identify opportunities to optimize innovation processes.
• Prepare and maintain project documentation, status reports, and governance materials.
• Lead project review sessions and implement learnings to improve future innovation programs.
• Mentor and support project managers and coordinators while sharing best practices across teams.
• Evaluate project challenges and develop mitigation and acceleration strategies to achieve business goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field. MBA preferred.
• 10+ years of project management experience within CPG, FMCG, or related industries.
• 5+ years of experience in product innovation, packaging innovation, new product development, or marketing.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex innovation programs from concept to launch.
• Strong understanding of product development, packaging development, and innovation management processes.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Key Skills

• Strategic project management and execution.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Risk assessment and problem-solving capabilities.
• Cross-functional leadership and collaboration.
• Organizational excellence and attention to detail.
• Ability to navigate complex, global, and dynamic business environments.
• Strong relationship-building and team leadership skills.