Director, Sensory Science

job purpose:

The Director of Sensory & Consumer Science is a visionary and hands‑on leader responsible for shaping the future of product experience across the portfolio. This role sets the long‑term sensory strategy, drives innovation through advanced methodologies, and ensures flawless tactical execution of sensory research and training programs. In addition to leading the Sensory & Consumer Science function, this role works closely with Quality Assurance sensory programs, ensuring robust product screening and staff capability building.

Reporting to the VP of R&D, the Director Sensory partners closely within R&D and with Marketing, Consumer Insights, Quality, and Commercial teams, as well as external academic and industry partners, to translate consumer perception into competitive advantage and deliver superior product experiences.

responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Innovation

• Define and execute a holistic sensory and consumer science strategy that fuels innovation, renovation, and productivity across the enterprise.

• Champion a consumer‑obsessed mindset, ensuring sensory insights shape long‑term product roadmaps, packaging innovation, and modernization initiatives.

• Drive breakthrough innovation by integrating emerging technologies (AI/ML analytics, digital olfaction, automation, rapid sensory tools) into the sensory ecosystem.

Tactical Execution of Sensory Science

• Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of sensory and consumer research, ensuring methodological rigor and business relevance.

• Oversee sensory panel operations, including recruitment, training, calibration, and performance management.

• Responsible for managing all external sensory testing and consulting relationship.

• Ensure the team delivers high‑quality, timely, and actionable insights that influence decisions across product development, quality, and marketing.

• Translate complex sensory data into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

• Build and embed agile sensory tools that accelerate development cycles and improve decision quality.

Methodology, Standards & Capability Building

• Advance sensory methodologies, data analytics, and product/packaging standards to ensure world‑class capabilities.

• Establish and continuously refine sensory KPIs, quality thresholds, and evaluation frameworks that drive consistency and speed.

• Lead the development of training programs for internal teams, cross‑functional partners, and external collaborators to elevate sensory literacy across the organization.

• Ensure sensory standards and tools are embedded in the organization.

Collaboration & External Engagement

• Build and sustain a global network of universities, research institutes, and industry leaders to bring cutting‑edge science and best practices into the organization.

• Serve as a senior expert in customer engagements and strategic presentations.

• Influence at all levels of the organization with strong communication, storytelling, and cross‑functional leadership skills.

Partnership with Quality Assurance Sensory Programs

• Partner with Quality leadership and ensure QA sensory programs are aligned with R&D sensory standards

• Provide strategic and technical guidance to QA teams responsible for onsite sensory screening and product release evaluations.

• Support the development of recognition and reward programs that reinforce excellence in sensory execution and product stewardship.

Project & Resource Management

• Prioritize and guide key initiatives across innovation, renovation, quality, and productivity pipelines.

• Manage budgets, staffing, and external resources to maximize impact and ROI.

• Ensure disciplined project management, clear communication, and timely delivery of sensory workstreams.

skills/qualifications required:

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Sensory Science, Food Science, or related field.

• 15+ years of experience in applied sensory and sensory strategy in food and beverage. Dairy experience preferred.

• 5+ years leading sensory strategy, teams, and cross‑functional influence at scale.

• Proven expertise in sensory insights, experimental design, and translating data into business‑shaping recommendations.

• Sensory panel management experience required.

• Deep consumer empathy and passion for crafting meaningful product experiences.

• Experience with automation, machine learning, digital olfaction, or AI‑enabled sensory analytics preferred.

• Experience managing budgets, resources, and complex project portfolios.

how fairlife nourishes you:

At fairlife, we believe in better — and that includes how we support our people. We offer a comprehensive suite of benefits and well-being resources designed to support you physically, emotionally, socially, and financially, both in and out of work.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective day one!

• Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)

• Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance

• Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)

• Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support

• 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match

• Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support

• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability

• Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)

• Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)

• Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential

• Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource Groups

fairlife’s nourish program is designed to meet you where you are — supporting your individual wellbeing journey while enabling you to do your best work every day.

position location: Chicago Illinois

reports to: VP, R&D

travel requirements: 20%

exempt/nonexempt: Exempt