Senior Manager, Technical Consumer Data Research (Nutrition)

About this role

Job Description Summary:

The Coca‑Cola Company, innovation starts with the consumer, and we are passionate about translating deep insights into breakthrough solutions that shape the future of beverages globally. In a world where consumer expectations are rapidly evolving, our ability to innovate confidently depends on a rich understanding of taste, experience, and behavior informed by powerful data and science.

As Senior Manager, Technical Consumer Data Research (TCDR) , you will drive consumer-centric research strategies that influence high-impact innovations for Global Nutrition  portfolio. Reporting to the Senior Director, TCDR NAOU, this role serves as a strategic business partner and trusted technical expert, ensuring that every innovation decision is rooted in robust sensory and consumer evidence.

You will lead cutting-edge research methodologies, applying advanced analytics, AI-driven tools, and sensory science expertise to generate actionable insights that enable “right-first-time” innovation. Working at the nexus of R&D, Marketing, Human Insights, and Global Development & Innovation teams, you will shape solutions that anticipate consumer needs and deliver exceptional experiences. This position offers the opportunity to influence long-term category strategies, integrate future-forward digital capabilities, and elevate the role of technical consumer insights in shaping global beverage innovation.

What You’ll Do for Us • Lead technical consumer data research initiatives for Global Nutrition, building robust learning plans that address key business priorities • Translate strategic questions into actionable sensory and consumer research programs using advanced methodologies and digital-first approaches • Leverage statistical modeling, AI, and machine learning techniques to synthesize structured and unstructured data into actionable insights and risk-based recommendations • Drive integration of consumer voice into the innovation pipeline, influencing product, packaging, and equipment development decisions to ensure consumer relevance and “first-time-right” outcomes • Execute advanced research designs (qualitative and quantitative) using parametric/non-parametric analytics, multivariate modeling, and predictive analytics for innovation performance forecasting • Serve as the functional lead for data-driven storytelling, translating complex technical findings into clear recommendations and frameworks for senior stakeholders • Champion adoption of emerging technologies and novel methodologies, partnering with the Global TCDR Capabilities team to scale AI-enabled tools and agile research practices • Design and deliver competitive benchmarking programs to uncover consumer drivers of choice, market trends, and whitespace opportunities • Collaborate across Marketing, R&D, and Human Insights to embed a consumer-centric innovation mindset within project teams and operating units • Drive engagement in global TCDR forums, contributing to methodological advancement and capability-building initiatives across categories and regions

Requirements & Qualifications • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Behavioral Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field • 10+ years of relevant experience within the FMCG or Beverage industry, with proven expertise in sensory and consumer research applied to innovation • Strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical techniques, predictive modeling, and advanced data analytics using tools such as JMP, SPSS, R, Python, SQL, and Power BI • Demonstrated experience applying AI and machine learning techniques (e.g., NLP, predictive modeling, image recognition, generative AI) to derive insights from structured and unstructured datasets • Deep understanding of consumer-centric innovation frameworks, behavioral science methodologies, and sensory evaluation principles • Ability to design and execute large-scale quantitative research studies and integrate findings into actionable innovation strategies • Exceptional skills in technical communication and data storytelling—turning complex analytics into simple, compelling narratives for business decision-making • Advanced influencing and stakeholder management capabilities, with success in navigating matrixed organizations and aligning cross-functional teams • Passion for adopting new technologies and an agile mindset to challenge conventional approaches and accelerate learning cycles • Strong critical-thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to balance technical depth with strategic business relevance

What We’ll Do for You • Provide an opportunity to set the research agenda for two critical growth categories, bringing consumer insight to the forefront of innovation • Offer exposure to cutting-edge AI, digital analytics platforms, and sensory science applications within a global research and development ecosystem • Enable collaboration with senior leaders and diverse teams across geographies, shaping consumer-driven decisions that impact billions of consumers worldwide • Invest in continuous development through involvement in advanced methodologies, global knowledge-sharing communities, and technical leadership opportunities

The Coca-Cola Company will not offer sponsorship for employment status (including, but not limited to, H1-B visa status and other employment-based nonimmigrant visas) for this position. Accordingly, all applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis and must not require The Coca-Cola Company's sponsorship to continue to work legally in the United States. Skills: Communication, Consumer Centricity, Consumer Research, Food Sciences, Food Technology, Group Problem Solving, Influencing, Innovation, Laboratory Testing, Leadership, Product Development, Researching, Sensory Research, Sensory Testing, Statistics, Teamwork Pay Range: United States of America: 131,000 USD - 153,000 USD Base pay offered may vary dep

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