Innovation Project Manager

Are you passionate about driving innovation, managing projects, and bringing new ideas to life? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where you can lead cross-functional teams, contribute to business cases, and drive growth through innovation initiatives? We are seeking a motivated and dynamic Innovation Project Manager to join our collaborative and innovative team.

About Us:

Retail Food Group (RFG) is a global food and beverage company headquartered in Queensland. We are Australia’s largest multi-brand retail food and beverage franchise owner which also roasts and supplies high-quality coffee products. Our company is committed to achieving results and supporting our franchise partners while embracing challenges in a friendly, inclusive environment that values both franchise partners and team members.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and dynamic Innovation Project Manager to join our team. As the Innovation Project Manager, you will play a key role in leading and managing innovation projects from conception to launch. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will drive initiatives that contribute to the continuous growth and success of our brands. Reporting to the General Manager of Innovation, you will execute our Innovation Strategy and Plan, utilizing a Stage-and-Gate Innovation Process to ensure efficiency and effectiveness throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage innovation projects, from ideation to launch, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to project timelines.
• Lead cross-functional teams across all business functions to drive innovation initiatives.
• Contribute to robust business cases for new products and present to key Leadership Team members at Stage-and-Gate intervals.
• Participate in portfolio planning, prioritizing initiatives based on strategic fit and potential impact.
• Collaborate with external third parties to assess partnerships and licensing opportunities.
• Oversee, track, and report on innovation performance across the business.
• Create and manage project timelines for all innovation, EPD, and Change Control projects.
• Continuously manage resources within budget and timelines, optimizing efficiency and effectiveness.
• Utilize a Change Control process to manage product changes and deletions across brands.
• Keep abreast of industry developments and apply best practices to areas of improvement.
• Conduct post-launch analysis at 3, 6, and 12-month intervals.
• Foster collaboration across functions, external stakeholders, customers, and agency partners.
• Actively support and promote a connected and united focus within the organization.
• Set an example of our Franchise Partner-first culture within the Innovation Team and throughout the business.
• Ensure 100% completion of Performance Plans and Focused Development Plans, with regular reviews and commitments.

Essential Criteria:

• Tertiary Qualifications in Business/Marketing, Environmental, or Science discipline.
• 2+ years' experience in end-to-end Project Management/Innovation within medium to large-scale FMCG or food manufacturing organizations.
• Exposure to cross-functional collaboration with functions such as Sales, Quality, Marketing, and Finance.
• Prior experience in New Product Development (NPD) and driving innovation initiatives.
• Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, adaptive environments while maintaining accountability.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work under pressure, adhering to conflicting deadlines to drive outcomes.
• Resilience and adaptability, with a hands-on approach to tasks.
• Organised and methodical in project management and documentation, preferably with experience using Monday.com or Asana.
• Proficiency in the MS Office package.

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to grow working with a leading global food and beverage company.
• A paid day off for your birthday!
• Be part of a supportive team that values collaboration and results.
• An Employee Assistance Program available for you and your family.

At RFG, we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace is key to fostering innovation and success. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age or marital status. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive atmosphere for all employees. Join us and be part of a team where your unique perspectives and experiences are valued and encouraged.

For more information about RFG visit: www.rfg.com.au

If you are a dedicated and passionate about innovation and bringing new concepts to life, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and contribute to the success of our business.