Sensory Manager

The Opportunity :

As the Sensory Manager, you will play a critical role in maintaining and enhancing the sensory quality of our meat and plant-based protein products.

You will lead sensory evaluation programs, manage sensory panels, and implement strategies to continually improve product quality and consistency.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sensory science, food science, or a related field, with experience in sensory evaluation techniques and food product development.

Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by May 23. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life :

• Develop and manage sensory evaluation programs to assess the sensory attributes of existing or potential Maple Leaf products, including taste, texture, aroma, and appearance.
• Recruit and manage sensory panels consisting of consumer and / or employee assessors to ensure accurate and consistent sensory evaluations.
• Design and conduct sensory tests, including discrimination tests, descriptive analysis, and consumer preference studies, to evaluate product quality and consumer acceptance.
• Analyze sensory data and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Research & Development, Quality Assurance, and Production, to identify opportunities for product improvement and optimization.
• Implement sensory standards and protocols to ensure product consistency and adherence to quality specifications.
• Stay current with industry trends, scientific advancements, and consumer preferences related to sensory science and meat products.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external partners to outsource Sensory testing when required.
• Participate in Innovation / product development projects, providing sensory expertise and guidance throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Maintain accurate records of sensory evaluations, test results, and sensory-related documentation in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Foster a culture of sensory awareness and excellence within the organization, promoting the importance of sensory evaluation in delivering superior protein products to consumers.

What You’ll Bring :

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in sensory science, preferably in the food industry, with a focus on meat products.
• Strong knowledge of sensory evaluation technique and statistical analysis.
• Experience managing sensory panels and conducting sensory tests, including discrimination testing, descriptive analysis, and consumer studies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex sensory data and draw actionable insights.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in sensory software and data analysis tools is a plus.
• Passion for food and a commitment to delivering exceptional sensory experiences to consumers.

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods :

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• A hybrid work model that embraces remote work for eligible roles, helping team members achieve work-life balance combining the best of both spending time working remotely, benefitting from focus time, and purposeful collaboration in the office setting.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing.

These benefits start on your first day of employment.

• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.
16 days ago