Innovation Project Manager

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.