Since 1940, Dairy Queen® has been one of the worldest known and loved brands. Based in Minneapolis, MN, International Dairy Queen Inc., (IDQ), is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation. As a leading franchisor, there are more than 6,700 independently owned and operated restaurants in the U.S., Canada and 25 countries around the world. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire) which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire.

Here at IDQ, we create extraordinary Fan experiences every day and we do this through our commitment to hiring and retaining only the best in class talent. We firmly believe that our employees are the catalyst to the success of the company where their initiative, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit are recognized and rewarded. We're looking for motivated, passionate and dedicated individuals with an inherent need and ambition to go after bigger challenges.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Vice President of Product Innovation. This position is responsible for leading the overall new product innovation strategy in alignment with business goals, desired customer experience, customer feedback and overall market opportunity to ensure market leadership. Lead the new product innovation team to work closely and positively with both internal and external partners in providing excellent customer service, driving results and ensuring the optimum menu. Work closely with all functions to ensure alignment of all new products programs, processes and initiatives.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

• Oversee the design, development and implementation of processes to elevate new and innovative products.
• Define new product development standards and processes to maintain a strong pipeline of innovative products that drive sales and transactions globally.
• Interpret competitorstivities, industry and consumer trends and food technology advancements to conceptualize and develop products and platforms which drive operating efficiencies and IDQ profitability. Initiate technology development and product development processes that support strategically significant business opportunities and competitive advantage.
• Develop strong business relationships with both internal and external partners, including key external vendors, franchisees and all internal departments to ensure cross-functional execution is achieved. Work closely with franchisees to influence their understanding and support of the new product innovation strategies and plans. Present information, strategies, and new product concepts to cross functional leaders, franchisees and professional organizations in a manner that inspires to action and to achieve established corporate goals.

Required Skills

Required skills includes:

• Strong ability to multi-task and prioritize multiple projects and requests simultaneously, within an intense, deadline-driven environment.
• Creative thinker who can quickly develop innovative ideas.
• Relationship building skills with the ability to create mutually beneficial relationships with both internal and external clients. Ability to collaborate with and influence others.
• Superb written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate product development concepts and strategies to a variety of audiences, including senior leadership teams and franchisee leadership groups/councils.
• Well organized with a high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to lead other departments, such as Operations, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Quality Analyst, to complete projects on time.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

Travel: Ability to travel up to 25% Required Experience

Required experience includes:

• Undergraduate degree in food science, chemistry or related fields and Masteregree in related field are both required.
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible R&D experience with a QSR or Food Service company.
• At least 5 years of experience effectively managing professional level product development staff and leading cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrable record of achievement in leading a team to create and implement a pipeline of successful products.

Benefits: Benefit package includes medical, dental and vision insurance coverage, employer paid basic life insurance, short and long-term disability, paid sick and vacation, 401(k) match, tuition reimbursement, wellness challenges and more!

IDQ is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. IDQ participates in the US E-Verify program.

Job Location Edina, Minnesota, United States Position Type Full-Time/Regular