Natural Science Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We have a current opening for a AgriTech & Biotech Science Manager NA and are actively reviewing applications.

To lead open innovation initiatives for Ferrero Open Innovation within the Americas region, based at the Innovation Center in Chicago, with a focus on AgriTech and BioTech.

•    Scout for technologies and partners, evaluating potential collaborations, and managing the development of selected projects within a dynamic, cross-functional environment.

•    Contribute to business planning, technology evaluation, and project acceleration in collaboration with global experts and regional stakeholders.

•    Interact closely with internal R&D, procurement, and sustainability teams, as well as Ferrero OI colleagues across Europe and Asia-Pacific

•    Play a key role in defining long-term guidelines for AgriTech and BioTech innovation, in full alignment and connection with the Stream Leaders and the central team, ensuring consistency with Ferrero’s strategic vision for sustainable and future-oriented sourcing in the Americas region.

•    Master’s and/or PhD degree in Biotechnology, Food Science, Biology, or related fields; MBA preferred.
•    8–12 years of experience in biotechnology, agri-tech, or food science innovation within a CPG and/or multinational corporation.
•    Solid scientific foundation in biological systems, fermentation, or bio-based technologies, with openness to explore adjacent innovation areas.
•    Strong business acumen with excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
•    Proven ability to translate scientific and technical concepts into actionable business strategies.
•    Demonstrated success operating in a fast-paced, high-performance, and cross-functional environment.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.

Careers with caring built in - discover our benefits here.

The base compensation range for this position is $130,655 - 174,207. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.

In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at ferrero.com.

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding.
Find out more here.

Ferrero is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable human rights laws. Ferrero will recruit, hire, train, and promote all persons without regard to race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, or history of disability (except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual is not able to perform the essential functions of the position even with reasonable accommodations), citizenship, or any other protected characteristic. 

Ferrero will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the People & Organization (HR) Representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.