General Summary: Plans and directs all aspects of the ALKAR research and Technology function including leading edge technology, field customer service, new technology commercialization, and research and development of continuous systems equipment. Oversees and coordinates the development and execution of division objectives, priorities, policies and procedures designed to ensure the organization’s competitive position and grow the profitability of its operation. Actively supports the Marketing and Sales functions new business development efforts through customer visits etc.. Develops Research & Development staff to ensure effective human resources are available to the organization. Plans and directs the function’s annual operating and capital budgeting process.

Principal Accountabilities:

·          Oversees development of leading edge food technologies and their applications for ALKAR equipment. (Thermal processing)

·          Directs, plans and conducts R & D projects for process, controls, and equipment development.

·          Directs and conducts customer technical support services both in-house and on-site.

·          Directs and conducts technical seminars for customer and in-house training.  Iowa State Visits.

·          Directs the commercialization efforts for food safety equipment and technologies through promotion of ALKAR product offerings to industry and academia; Prepares and presents technical articles and papers to trade magazines, industry meetings and scientific conferences. Supports the Marketing and Sales function business development initiatives.

·          Plans and directs the development of function’s annual operating and capital budgets.

·          Remains abreast of latest technological advances in the industry by participating in various food processing technical groups and associations and by researching pertinent technical literature.

·          Participates in development of annual business strategic plan, business objectives and R & D priorities for the organization.

·          Performs additional duties as assigned by CEO and ALKAR Vice President.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

·        Masters in Meat/Food Science or Food Engineering.

·        Minimum of five years experience in managing an R & D function in a food industry setting.

·        In-depth understanding of ALKAR product lines.

·        Strong analytical, mathematical, problem solving and interpersonal skills as well as verbal and written communication skills.

Areas Supervised:

·          Process Engineering, Technical Field Service, Food Technology, and Food Safety for the ALKAR organization.

Scope Data (budget accountability, operating revenues, organizational unit responsibility, number of employees supervised, other pertinent numeric data):

·          Develops and oversees $1.7 million research and technology annual operating budget.

·          Directly supervises 2-5 salaried employees and indirectly supervises an additional 15 employees.

 Description of physical working environment:

·          Requires sitting at work desk and computer terminal.

·          Frequent phone usage while in office area.

·          Requires walking, standing, climbing stairs while in production and research areas.

·          Domestic and foreign travel required.

·          Leads product testing strategy in ALKAR lab