Job description

Overview

The position of Senior Director, Innovation and Beverage Strategy at The Coca-Cola Company involves spearheading enterprise-level beverage and product development strategies for one of Coca-Cola’s major international clients, excluding North America. This role is based in Atlanta, GA, and includes a combination of remote and in-office work, with key days required onsite.

Key Responsibilities

Act as the main relationship manager for the customer’s innovation segments, including Culinary, Menu, and Beverage Category teams, deeply integrating into their innovation activities.
Oversee innovation budget collaboration with local markets to ensure financial efficiency and alignment.
Lead and coordinate custom product and innovation research initiatives by partnering with agencies and internal experts utilizing various research methodologies (e.g., BASES, Zappi).
Serve as the beverage category subject matter expert, staying informed about flavor trends gleaned from research, flavor suppliers, trade shows, and competitive brand activities.
Drive competitive analysis and market visits to enhance product and strategic decisions.
Manage and develop the Innovation Pipeline by gathering data, collaborating across customer HQ teams, and integrating efforts with marketing, finance, supply chain, R&D, and business development.
Regularly communicate insights and plans to leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and execution.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Minimum of 8 years' experience in innovation, brand management, or product strategy within the consumer goods sector.
Experience working directly with customers or in client-service roles is essential.
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or comparable professional experience.
Familiarity with the Coca-Cola system preferred.
Available to work in Atlanta, GA, with an office presence Tuesday through Thursday and flexible remote work on Monday and Friday.
Willingness to travel between 25% and 50%, including possible trips to Chicago, Munich, and other global locations.

Additional Expertise

Deep understanding of the innovation pipeline development and product lifecycle from concept to market.
Strong grasp of consumer product preferences to formulate competitive products.
Knowledge of system economics to drive profitable growth collaboratively across the value chain.
Track record as a trusted advisor with robust customer management and network collaboration skills.
Proficient storytelling, negotiation, influencing, and project management capabilities.
Analytical orientation with experience analyzing qualitative and quantitative data.
Proficient in managing and leading market research projects, capable of tailoring presentations for diverse audiences.

Company Culture and Equal Opportunity

The Coca-Cola Company fosters an inclusive and growth-oriented culture emphasizing curiosity, empowerment, agility, and inclusivity. They are committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, gender, age, disability, and other protected classes.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this role is between 174000 and 200000 USD annually, with a competitive annual incentive target of 30%. Additional benefits include comprehensive medical and financial packages, along with relocation assistance. Long-term incentive opportunities range from 0% to 20%.

Work Conditions

Work schedule requires office/customer engagement from Tuesday to Thursday with flexible arrangements on Monday and Friday.
Regular international and domestic travel up to 50% of the time.