Principal Scientist
alpha executive searchMadison (WI)
About the role
Overview:
Executive Recruiter - Partnering World-Class Companies with Top-Tier Talent
Principal Scientist, R&D – Director-Level | Cheese Innovation
Join a top 10 global dairy processor as a Director-level Principal Scientist leading innovation in pasta filata cheeses (string, mozzarella, provolone). This is a key strategic role driving product development, process optimization, and technical leadership across the cheese portfolio.
Multiple Location Options in CALIFORNIA OR WISCONSIN
Relocation assistance provided
Responsibilities:
Lead R&D strategy and innovation for pasta filata cheese products.
Identify new technologies to enhance quality, yield, and operational efficiency.
Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, ops, packaging, and category teams.
Build strategic partnerships with suppliers, universities, and industry groups.
Support IP strategy, quality initiatives, and capital project feasibility.
Qualifications:
Must have hands-on experience with pasta filata cheese development(string, mozzarella, provolone).
Have a minimum of 5 - 10 years inDAIRYR&D or technical services.
Master’s in Dairy/Food Science or related field.
Proven leadership and strong communication skills.
Willingness to travel 50%+.
Drive innovation. Lead change. Shape the future of cheese.
Additional job details
Seniority level: Director
Employment type:
Full-time
Job function: Research, Product Management, and Science
Industries: Dairy Product Manufacturing and Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Note:
The description includes other job postings and time-stamped opportunities which are not part of the Principal Scientist role and have been omitted to maintain focus on the core position.
Before you apply
Applying takes about a minute. These four things decide how fast it moves after that.
Your profile is current
It's what we read first. Occupations, seniority and locations matter more than a long history.
Two examples you can talk through
Not a portfolio — just two pieces of work where you can explain the decisions and what you'd change.
A number in mind
What you're on now and what would make you move. We negotiate better when we know both.
Your notice period
Employers plan around it, and it's the question that stalls offers most often.
Once you apply, someone reads it and calls you before anything reaches the employer — usually within two working days.
More like this
