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Culver Franchising System, LLC · 1 month ago

Innovation Research & Development Manager

Prairie du Sac, WI

Full-time

Hybrid

Mid, Senior Level

$80K/yr - $90K/yr

5+ years exp

Culver Franchising System is looking for an Innovation Research & Development Manager. The successful candidate will lead impactful brand-level initiatives and operational improvement projects while exploring new technology to enhance efficiency and product quality for Culver’s restaurants.

Restaurants

Responsibilities

Lead the development of new products, equipment, technology, and menu items, from concept to launch

Identify and implement innovative operational solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall experience for team members and guests

Conduct market research to identify trends, guest and team needs, and competitive landscape to inform research and development strategies

Utilize expertise and skill sets to identify opportunities and develop viable solutions to any problem

Make research and experience-based solution recommendations that are the best choice for CFS and restaurant teams

Enhance and build a detailed R&D process, including development and management of timelines, milestones, project plans, KPI identification, test implementation, feedback gathering and analysis, recommendations, and rollouts

Creation and implementation of robust training programs to support tests and rollouts, including written materials, photos, videos, webinars, and on-site training

Analysis of data to determine test success, failure, or optimization including thorough data and feedback gathering during tests and at their conclusion and presenting data concisely in an easy-to-understand format that supports test objectives

Deliver high-caliber presentations to all levels of leadership, including project updates, classroom style teaching and training, data analysis, and recommendations

Provide change management plans and supporting materials for CFS Operations and other internal teams, Leadership, Franchisees, Restaurant Managers, and Team Members

Facilitate thorough and timely communication among all teams, vendors, and stakeholders for each project while providing written updates with regular cadence

Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Operations, Marketing, Design, Supply Chain, Risk, and Analytics to ensure successful implementation of new initiatives

Mentor and assist with guiding the innovation team, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement

Qualification

ResearchDevelopmentData AnalysisProject ManagementOperational ImprovementProduct DevelopmentMarket ResearchMicrosoft SuiteLeadershipCommunication SkillsInterpersonal Skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in business administration, industrial engineering, or another related field, or additional relevant work experience

Minimum of 5 years of experience in research and development, preferably in the food industry

Proven track record of successful product development and operational improvements

Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

Strong leadership abilities

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Strong ability to use the Microsoft suite of products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Planner, and OneNote

Benefits

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Employee assistance program

Employee discount

Flexible schedule

Flexible spending account

Health insurance

Health savings account

Life insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Professional development assistance

Referral program

Retirement plan

Tuition reimbursement

Vision insurance

Company

Culver Franchising System, LLC

Glassdoor3.5

With strong, Midwestern family values and genuine hometown hospitality, Culver’s has proudly served its signature ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard since 1984.

Founded in 1984

Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, US

51-200 employees