Product Development Project Lead-Chicago, IL

Description Product Development Project Lead  ABOUT GOLDEN STATE FOODS   Golden State Foods is a distinguished leader in the food service industry, offering an extensive array of products and services to a diverse clientele. Rooted in the values of quality service and integrity, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where employees can advance, innovate, and contribute to our ongoing success.   ABOUT THE ROLE     Serves as the regular contact between GSF Product Development / LP Management, McDonald’s Menu Management, Quality Systems and all Supply Chain partners to help facilitate project management including communication regarding new product development, product commercialization, technical issues/opportunities, manage current projects, coordinate new concepts with product development within McDonald’s and GSF as well as ensure high quality customer service, rapid problem response and resolution.  WHAT YOU’LL DO   Facilitates communication regarding the development of new products or duplication of target products from concept to launch into McDonald’s restaurants, as requested by McDonalds, to ensure smooth operations and high-quality customer service. Facilitates resolution of technical product issues efficiently and to customer’s satisfaction. (20%)  Schedules and facilitates new and core product reviews to support new product launches. Facilitates planning between McDonalds’ Menu and Quality Systems staff and GSF R&D, Quality Assurance and Operations to ensure customer needs are met and GSF receives regular required feedback for effective decision-making.  (20%) Supports communication between GSF LPNA and McDonald’s Supply Chain on New Product and LTO launches. Leads interactions, troubleshoots, and problem-solves product development and new product and core supply chain issues regarding GSF products, national promotions, and regional promotional activities to ensure rapid problem response and resolution with McDonald’s.  (20%) Coordinates the presentation of new concepts to McDonald’s which includes providing samples for evaluation, creating presentation materials, attending focus groups, assisting with taste panel testing and following up with the appropriate GSF contacts. (10%)   Hosts McDonald’s at GSF facilities for scale up, first production, and oversees sample coordination and approval process alongside R&D as part of the new product commercialization process. (10%) Participates in the McDonald’s New Products Supply Chain, Core Supply Chain and Supply Chain partners meetings and special project teams to provide input and direction on McDonalds’ strategic initiatives and menu development.  (5%)   Attends the McDonald’s QS product cuttings and attends the McDonald’s Liquid Product Innovation Team meetings.  (5%)  Look for and anticipate opportunities outside of our current portfolio to gain market share within the McDonald’s business. (5%)  Maintain customer-facing demonstration kitchen and shared office space to support customer evaluations, product testing, and internal evaluation efforts in the Chicago Innovation Center. Assist in hosting McDonald’s or related organizations such as Ronald McDonald House for events in Chicago IC. (5%) WHAT YOU’LL NEED 5-7 or more years of relevant experience in product development, customer service, account management and/or marketing.  Education & Certifications Bachelor’s degree in food science or related technical field from an accredited college or university    SCHEDULE & SETTING   Hybrid: 3 days in office / 2 days remoteTravel: Up to 25%Role Type: Individual Contributor BENEFITS   Health and Wellness: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts (FSA), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Voluntary Insurance (Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Legal, Life, and AD&D); Pet Insurance                 Retirement Benefits:  401(k)   Paid Time Off (PTO): Includes vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays provided in accordance with company policy and applicable state and local laws.               To apply, click “Apply” and complete the online application  WHY JOIN US   Golden State Foods (GSF) is one of the largest diversified suppliers in the food industry, manufacturing a range of products including sauces, dressings, condiments, syrups, and toppings for leading restaurant and retail brands.   Join GSF and grow your career with a global food industry leader who:  People First: At Golden State Foods, we're not just a company; we're a dynamic community where your talents are celebrated, and your ambitions are nurtured.  Values Driven: Our core values drive everything we do, creating a culture of innovation, integrity, and excellence. But we're not content with just being great; we strive for greatness in every aspect of our work. People Development: At GSF we strive to continually develop our people to prepare us all for the needs of tomorrow. Philanthropy & Sustainability: We're committed to making a difference beyond our walls through philanthropy and sustainability efforts across all our locations around the globe.  Extensive Benefits: Golden State Foods believes in a holistic approach to wellness focusing on the whole person with benefits that support those needs.  Equal Opportunity Employer:  We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  Our company values diverse perspectives and is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace where every person is supported and empowered to thrive.    

Created: 2026-02-26