Project Commercialization Manager

This job was posted by https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov : For more information, please see: https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov/jobs/13800453 What You'll Do - Facilitate the Commercialization process cross-functional activities required to prepare to launch a new product or package into the market or make changes to an existing product/package/process for various types of projects, as assigned. - Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans and timelines with input from the cross-functional team, understanding interdependencies, implications/risks, and clarity of key milestones/critical path. Seeks to understand the activities of the various functions, asking questions to drive clarity in the project approach/timeline. - Schedule and lead regular Commercialization meetings and/or project-specific meetings as needed, supporting the Project Owner to ensure communication and drive collaboration across functions including Marketing, R&D, Procurement, Finance, Sales, Supply Chain, etc., to ensure activities/actions are on track to deliver projects on time and with excellence. Frequency/timing of meetings is dependent on the needs of the brand/business and/or complexity of the project. {=html} - Monitor the progress of project action items, completed tasks, etc. from development through completion; update project timelines, document approved changes, and escalate constraints, dependencies, and schedule risks as needed. - Prepare/submit proper forms and track status to facilitate system/specification set-up. - Facilitate the Stage Gate process by confirming required gate deliverables, decisions, approvals, scope updates, risks, and supporting documentation are complete at the appropriate time and with the proper requirements. Collaborate on the monthly agenda with project owners and business leaders. - Provide status reports on a regular basis for each project, raising key issues to the Brand Manager or Project Owner as well as their Manager on risks and needs. - Drive/support business process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiencies within Commercialization/Stage Gate processes as well as interdepartmentally. - Perform other duties assigned that support the overall success of the team, department, or organization. This may include participating in cross-functional initiatives, contributing to process improvements, or assisting with special projects as needed. - This list is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities required for this role. What Youll Bring - BS/BA in Marketing, Business Administration, Engineering or related field is required. - Minimum of 5 years of experience in a CPG environment, including at least 3 years in proven project management expertise. - Food industry experience is preferred but not required. - Prior experience in manufacturing and/or R&D is preferable. - Must be detail-oriented and have strong organizational skills. - PMP certification is preferable but not required. - Basic knowledge of bill-of-material structures, ERP systems such as D365 or SAP, and GS1 standards is preferred. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential. - Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Teams is required; experience with Smartsheet, Microsoft Project, or comparable project-management software is required. Leadership Expectations - Must possess demonstrated ability in managing multiple projects with high degree of complexity within a specified timeline. - Ability to work effectively with all functional areas at all levels is essential. Physical Requirements & Work Env ronment Ability to remain seated at a workstation for extended periods (up to 8 hours per day). Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling office equipment. Ability to view computer screens and read printed materials for prolonged periods. Occasional standing, walking, and reaching within the office environment. Ability to lift and carry office supplies or equipment weighing up to 1015 lbs. Adequate hearing and speech to communicate effectively in person and via phone/video. Regular, predictable attendanceboth in-person and remoteas defined by the hybrid work schedule is an essential function of this position. Employees are expected to be present and engaged during designated work hours, including required on-site days.