Associate Director - Innovation (Multiple Positions)

Own innovation through the stage‑gate process, providing clear visibility to senior leadership on opportunities, trade‑offs, and recommendations

Manage agency partners supporting innovation development, including design and consumer validation efforts

Leverage syndicated data, performance tracking, and competitive analysis to assess innovation effectiveness and inform future direction

Apply a consumer‑first mindset to decision‑making while balancing brand integrity, financial performance, and operational feasibility

Shape portfolio and innovation architecture decisions, ensuring clarity and consistency in how innovation is brought to market

Clearly articulate strategy, insights, and vision to senior and executive leadership audiences

What we’re looking for:

Bachelor’s degree required; MBA with a marketing emphasis a plus

9+ years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in innovation marketing, brand management, or product management

Proven experience setting strategic direction and mobilizing cross‑functional teams toward shared goals

Strong background in innovation leadership, including end‑to‑end commercialization experience

Advanced analytical skills with the ability to synthesize data into clear insights and compelling stories

Demonstrated P&L understanding and strong business acumen

Enthusiasm for consumer marketing, innovation trends, and cultural insights

Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and deliver results within defined timelines

Confidence engaging and influencing senior and executive‑level stakeholders

Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz’ strategy and values.

New Hire Base Salary Range:

$164,200.00 - $205,200.00

Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.

The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You’ll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training

Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)

Chicago/Aon Center

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contactNAZTAOps@kraftheinz.comfor assistance.