Manager, Innovation Insights

Overview In this role you drive consumer insights to shape a consumer-led innovation pipeline. You partner with cross-functional teams to uncover unmet needs and whitespace opportunities, translating findings into growth concepts and actionable recommendations. You balance rigorous research with strategic thinking to influence decision-making and portfolio direction. You stay connected to industry trends and bring external perspective to guide innovation territories and prioritization. This position offers the opportunity to impact long-term growth through data-driven storytelling and cross-functional collaboration. Compensation / Benefitspaid time offmedical/dental/vision insurance 401(k)comprehensive benefits package Responsibilities Lead learning plans aligned with business priorities and brand ambitions. Design, manage, and synthesize qualitative and quantitative research for early exploration and go-to-market decisions. Identify unmet consumer needs and emerging behaviors to unlock product, format, flavor, and experience opportunities. Translate primary research, syndicated data, trends, and internal learnings into story-driven recommendations. Partner with Innovation, Brand Marketing, R&D, Strategy, and cross-functional teams to shape territories, briefs, concepts, and prioritization. Define and evaluate whitespace opportunities and future-forward platforms for portfolio growth. Maintain external perspective through awareness of category trends, consumer shifts, and innovation best practices. Influence stakeholders by articulating concrete actions for the business based on research. Ensure insights are connected across projects to improve organizational learning and decisions. Manage multiple projects and external partners with focus on quality, timing, budgets, and impact. Contribute to research best practices and explore AI-enabled tools and approaches. Key requirements Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, psychology, sociology, or a related field.6+ years of consumer insights, innovation insights, market research, or strategy experience, preferably in CPG or beverage alcohol. Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods including concept development, innovation screening, product testing, packaging research, and exploratory work. Demonstrated ability to synthesize disparate information into actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Strong communication, storytelling, and presentation skills with the ability to influence cross-functional partners. Experience managing external research partners and multiple projects simultaneously. Strong analytical thinking, curiosity, and comfort navigating ambiguity. Ability to connect consumer understanding to business strategy and innovation decisions. Proficiency in Power Point and Excel. Willingness to travel as needed. Strong communication and storytelling abilities Influence and cross-functional collaboration Curiosity and analytical thinking Power Point Excel Qualitative and quantitative research methods