Sensory Panel Leader

Who are we?

MMR Research Worldwide has big plans for our US operation, and we’re looking for a proactive and
ambitious individual to join our growing sensory team as a Sensory Panel Leader based in our facility
in Pleasantville, New York.

MMR is a global leader in guiding innovation for clients within the food, drink and personal care sectors. We advise many iconic global brands, as well as up-and-coming innovators. Our culture is vibrant, fast paced, yet friendly and supportive. Our work practices embody both scientific rigor and creative drive, leading to innovation in research methods and techniques to facilitate our clients’ creative business thinking.

The role

This role will combine the panel leadership of our expert sensory panel, alongside project management. You will be responsible for delivering sensory projects from leading panel sessions to report writing, ensuring that the research design, panel session planning and leadership, sensory moderation, analysis and interpretation of results, fulfil clients’ needs.

Key responsibilities:

Sensory Panel Leadership

• To manage the sensory panel and lead panel sessions on clients’ projects, to ensure smooth delivery of sensory research and consistently deliver high quality descriptive analysis data
• To direct the Sensory Panel Assistant to safeguard the full proficiency of the preparation and facilitation of the sensory panel(s) and product management
• To regularly recruit and train new panelists, maintaining required panel numbers
• To collect and analyze panel monitoring data on each project and provide relevant feedback and one-to-one reviews with sensory panelists to maximize data quality, and panel engagement and motivation

Project Management

• Liaising with clients and colleagues to design research and methodologies to best meet objectives
• To manage sensory projects, ensuring appropriate resourcing and equipment, liaising with colleagues and stats team for design and analysis, and delivering within given timing and budget constraints
• To draw up schedules (timing, briefings, etc.) and coordinate all aspects of each project To brief and liaise with colleagues from the sensory team and other departments and create the relevant documentation/paperwork, to ensure accurate and timely execution of the research
• To assist with product preparation and serving as required for the smooth running of projects
• To ensure that clients are kept up to date with project progress, and sign off on relevant documentation
• To analyze sensory data providing considered reporting, interpretation and recommendations, with support from senior sensory colleagues

• Degree in Food Science/Sensory Science (e.g WO, HBO…) or equivalent professional experience.
• Knowledge of Sensory / Statistical Analysis
• Experience in sensory panel management preferred
• Experience with sensory software and data analysis (Eye Question / Compusense, R and XL Stat…)
• Exposure to an FMCG environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to multi-task and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Ability to work well within a team
• People and team management skills.
• Able to work independently
• A plus: being a foodie who is passionate with food and cooking.

At MMR, we're committed to ensuring the happiness and well-being of each employee, regardless of where they are in the world!

We offer a wide range of core and additional benefits to enhance your experience with us. Competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and unparalleled training opportunities are standard here. Our vibrant culture, talented team, and focus on employee well-being is what makes MMR truly shine.

 Ready to experience it for yourself? Apply now!