R&D Programme & Governance Manager

R&D Programme and Governance Manager Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny Tirlán Tirlán, is a world-class food and nutrition co-operative, with a diverse portfolio of quality ingredients, leading consumer and agri brands. Tirlán owns leading brands such as Avonmore, Kilmeaden Cheese, Millac, Solmiko, Truly Grass Fed, Premier Milk, Wexford, mymilkman.ie and GAIN Animal Nutrition. We nurture a talented team across Ireland, the US, MEA and China, delivering annual revenues of over €3 billion, and circa 2,000 people to manage our network of 11 processing plants and 52 agri branches. Our purpose is to nourish the world, while safeguarding our environment for future generations. Role Profile Reporting to the Head of R&D Technical Operations, this role will be responsible for leading R&D Programme and Governance activities including maintaining, optimizing and developing our current innovation processes and project portfolio management system. The role also manages R&D programmes and project activity from planning, coordination through to implementation. This role is based at our state-of-the-art innovation centre in Ballyragget Co. Kilkenny, with the opportunity to work in a hybrid manner, and with some travel to other sites as required. Key Responsibilities Drive effective portfolio governance, ensuring projects are appropriately monitored, prioritised and delivered against agreed objectives Lead the continuous improvement of project management, NPD processes, governance frameworks and ways of working Manage and develop the Project Portfolio Management (PPM) system, including administration, training, user support and enhancement Provide portfolio analysis, KPI reporting and management information to support leadership decision-making and business performance Facilitate stage-gate reviews, project forums and cross-functional collaboration to ensure robust project execution and stakeholder alignment Develop and embed best-practice tools, processes and standards, while supporting strategic initiatives including tax credit, grant and continuous improvement programmes Support the planning and delivery of R&D and business events, workshops and stakeholder engagements involving customers, suppliers and internal teams Provide flexible support across the wider R&D function, contributing to existing department ways of working, projects, problem-solving activities and continuous improvement initiatives Key Requirements 3rd level Degree qualification; postgraduate qualification desirable Experience in food, beverage or dairy industries desirable Strong process knowledge and experience, ideally within food/dairy manufacturing Proven track record in R&D project delivery and management Knowledge of innovation, NPD, portfolio management, and project/programme management methodologies. Experience using and modifying Project Portfolio Management (PPM) tools. Excellent communication, stakeholder management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage complex cross-functional projects and interdependencies Flexible, adaptable and willing to support a broad range of business priorities, projects and smaller tasks Core Competencies Innovation Management Problem Solving Planning Negotiating Drive for Results Written Communications Customer Focus About us Through our expertise in research and development, customer insights, food safety and state-of-the-art manufacturing we bring innovative food and nutrition solutions to a global market. Our new and vibrant headquarters in Kilkenny City operates as a collaboration hub where multi-functional teams come together in a hybrid work environment. Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion We believe in the value of difference. We know that different perspectives, life experience and backgrounds can drive innovation and deliver growth. We welcome people from all walks of life without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, or disability status. Join our Talent Pool Considering a new career in Tirlán but this isn’t the role for you? Join our talent community and sign up for job notifications at www.tirlan.com/careers Tirlán is a Values Based Organisation