SodaStream: R&D Project Manager

Overview (English)

At SodaStream, part of PepsiCo, we’re looking for a strategic and execution-focused R&D Program Manager who can bridge technical expertise and executive leadership, driving complex innovation programs while aligning senior stakeholders across R&D, commercial, and cross-functional teams.

In this role, you will serve as a key interface between R&D, commercial, and cross-functional teams, ensuring the successful delivery of new product and technology initiatives from concept through commercialization. You will lead program planning, governance, risk management, and stakeholder alignment across a diverse portfolio of innovation projects.

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Responsibilities (English)

• Lead end-to-end program management for R&D initiatives, from concept development through commercialization.
• Drive cross-functional alignment between R&D, commercial, operations, legal, and other key stakeholders to ensure successful program execution.
• Facilitate stage-gate and agile development processes, ensuring adherence to governance standards and decision-making frameworks.
• Support intellectual property activities in partnership with Legal and R&D teams, including patent-related processes and freedom-to-operate assessments.
• Conduct detailed technical and business reviews of high-priority projects, providing insights and recommendations to leadership teams.
• Monitor open issues, risk resolution progress, and program health indicators, and provide regular status updates to senior leadership.
• Prepare and deliver program updates, progress reports, and executive-level presentations to support business decisions.
• Promote best practices, consistent documentation, and operational excellence across the R&D project portfolio.
  
  

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in R&D project or program management within consumer products, hardware or technology
• Proven track record leading cross-functional new product development programs from concept through market launch.
• Strong experience with stage-gate and/or agile program management methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders, align competing priorities, and drive execution across complex organizations.
• Experience supporting intellectual property processes, including patent filings, portfolio activities, or freedom-to-operate evaluations.
• Strong technical acumen with the ability to understand, challenge, and guide complex engineering and product development discussions.
• Proficiency with project management and portfolio management tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, Smartsheet, or similar platforms.