Sensory Consumer Scientist

Overview
In this crucial role within the R&D Sensory & Consumer Experience Competitive Intelligence Team (EXP-CI), you will be at the forefront of our sensory and consumer experience initiatives.
We transform competitive consumer data into insights to deliver quality advantages for our product icons.
We also focus on Sensory Capability Building in our plants globally and Sensory & Packaging Quality Monitoring through testing of finished products.
Responsibilities
Support the execution of Sensory & Packaging Quality Monitoring and Competitive Intelligence Programs for beverages and foods.
Understand the Sensory & Packaging related methodologies applied in the EXP-CI laboratory according to PepsiCo approved testing procedures.
Build expertise in the sensory testing of beverage and food samples and become familiar with the sensory profiles of our key brands.
Gain an understanding of the production process in beverage and foods plants and the role of sensory evaluation during the production process.
Work alongside manager on existing Sensory Capability Programs while supporting the design and development of new Sensory Capability Programs.
Conduct Sensory Training sessions, with up to 8 classroom training sessions per year, internationally.
Ensure all relevant Sensory Training metrics are captured, reviewed, and insights provided before and after each training.
Lead Sensory Community of Practice (CoP) virtual sessions for different global regions.
Oversee the Sensory Global Proficiency and Sensory Reference Qualification Programs, liaising with external vendors and Sensory Managed Services on all related elements.
Provide field issue support and new plant support, tracking performance and identifying areas for improvement.
Analyse and interpret Sensory & Consumer data, providing insights and status updates to key stakeholders.
Lead foundational, custom competitive research, including regional competitive understanding for new emerging competitors.
Be a strong partner in cross-functional collaboration across R&D, QA, QC, Consumer Relations, Insights, Marketing.
Support the development, implementation, and next steps of key Sensory & Consumer Experience programs through innovative and strategic thinking.
Participate in relevant teams and projects to support the EXP-CI strategy.
Act as backup within the department as required.
Serve as the Sensory & Consumer Experience representative on business teams, collaborating with research and development, insights, packaging, and other departments.
Adhere to site Health & Safety and Good Laboratory Practice policies and procedures.
Qualifications
Essential Criteria:
Degree/Diploma in Sensory Sciences, Nutritional Sciences, Food Science /Technology, Psychology, or equivalent.
3+ years sensory experience preferably in the Food Industry.
Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, Power point).
Excellent writing, presentation and communication skills.
Strong organizational, time-management and teamwork skills.
A self-starter, proactive in delivering results & with a drive to increase efficiency.
Positive attitude and ability to work in a cross functional and global environment (cultural awareness).
Working as part of a global team in a subject matter expertise role is advantageous.
Flexibility regarding priority changes.
Cooperate with co-workers within an organized team environment or work alone without supervision.
Manage time effectively to complete assignments in expected time frame.
Willing to travel cross-continentally, multiple times per year, if required.
Additional Desired Criteria:
Collaborates beyond boundaries: Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.
Demonstrates Global acumen: Excellent collaboration within and across teams both locally and globally.
Experience with sensory testing of beverages and/or foods and experience with a range of sensory methodologies.
Experience with and/or an interest in training groups and/or individuals.
Experience in a Beverage or Foods production environment.
Independently analyses and solves complex problems.
Experience with Sensory & Consumer Software such as Fizz or EyeQuestion.
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