Manager Innovation Support & (Smart) Operations

Job Description Do you want to lead a multidisciplinary team that drives innovation and operational excellence in research and development?

At the Cosun Innovation Center in Dinteloord, we are looking for a Manager Shared Services RD&I who will ensure high-quality analytical, operational, and modeling support for RD&I projects across central and business group functions. In this pivotal role, you will lead a diverse team, optimize resources, and enable innovation through cutting-edge services and smart operations.

About Cosun Royal Cosun is a leading agricultural cooperative and is owned by approximately 8,100 sugar beet growers. Our purpose is clear: we aim to contribute to an enjoyable, nutritional and circular world by unlocking the full potential of plants and people for current and next generations. This purpose is rooted in 125 years of Cosun history in successfully valorizing arable crops, such as sugar beets, chicory and potatoes, and co-products into a diverse portfolio of value-added products.

What will you do?

Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team (technicians, operators, patent specialist, smart operations professionals)

Allocate resources effectively across RD&I projects for central and business units

Oversee chemical and physical analyses supporting product and process development

Manage pilot plant scheduling, trial execution, and reporting

Coordinate smart operations initiatives to enhance digitalization and process optimization

Act as liaison between RD&I project managers and shared services teams

Develop strategies to improve service quality, efficiency, and innovation support

Contribute to RD&I Management Team strategic planning and decision-making

Qualifications Your profile

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Technology, or related field

Proven experience managing multidisciplinary technical teams

Strong understanding of analytical techniques, pilot plant operations, smart operation and energy

Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills

Experience in RD&I environments and cross-functional collaboration

Strong stakeholder management skills

What do we offer?

A exciting full-time position at the Cosun Innovation Center in Dinteloord

Work in an innovative and multidisciplinary team

Room for initiative and professional development

Excellent employment conditions, including a competitive salary (€5,700 – €7,700 per month), pension, and flexible working hours

Where will you work? You will be part of the RD&I Management Team and report directly to the Chief RD&I Officer. At the Cosun Innovation Center, you will collaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to deliver ambitious business targets and shape the future of plant-based solutions. Our team culture emphasizes trust, collaboration, and shared ambition, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included.

Interested?

Apply now! Please submit your application by December 16. A case study or assessment may be included as part of the selection process.

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