Website protisglobal Protis Global
Smart Talent Strategies for Consumer Brands
Position: Production & Innovation Manager
Location: Guadalajara, MX
Supervisor: R&D, US
The Production & Innovation Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end management of the tequila production process, collaborating with distilleries located outside Guadalajara, Mexico. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of tequila production techniques, product development, logistics, and quality control. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of our brand while achieving production targets and quality standards. This person will supervise our distillate production as well as our tequila maturation and blending to ensure our quality standards are met and our tequila matches our desired flavor profile(s).
Role and Responsibilities:
• Production Oversight: Oversee all aspects of tequila production, from agave quality & cooking, distillation to aging, processing, and bottling. Ensure that each stage follows established product specifications and quality standards.
• Product Development: Leads the formulation and prototype development of new tequila products that meet cost, consumer, regulatory, and quality targets.
• Quality Control: In collaboration with US R&D, implement and monitor rigorous quality control measures throughout the production process to guarantee the consistent quality and flavor profile of our tequila.
• Supplier Collaboration: Maintain strong relationships with production partners and aging facilities. Work closely with them to ensure seamless collaboration and alignment with our brand’s vision and standards.
• Process Improvement: Continuously identify opportunities for process optimization, and efficiency gains in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Decision Making: Search for potential issues, then provide & implement solutions when necessary.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay up-to-date with local and international regulations related to tequila production, aging, and distribution, ensuring full compliance at all times.
• Reporting: Generate regular production reports, outlining updates, challenges, and proposed solutions for senior management in the US.
Qualifications and Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Business Administration) or equivalent experience. Advanced degree is a plus.
• Must have at least 10 years of experience in a technical tequila production role.
• Bilingual Proficiency: Fluent in both Spanish and English, with exceptional communication skills in both languages (written & verbal).
• Tequila Expertise: In-depth knowledge of tequila production techniques, flavor profiles, aging processes, sensory evaluations, and industry best practices. Experience in product development from benchtop to full production.
• Production Management: Proven experience in managing production processes, quality control, and logistics in the tequila industry.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with local and international regulations governing tequila production, aging, and distribution.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving environment, managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Computer Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and other relevant software applications.
This position must be able to travel within Mexico and to the United States.