Senior Program Manager - Food Innovation

KFC • Plano, TX

50d

About The Position

This senior-level role is responsible for leading and orchestrating the strategic and operational rhythm of KFC’s global food innovation and brand governance functions. The Program Manager ensures excellence in brand alignment, strategic initiative execution, and supplier engagement across the global system. This role is pivotal in shaping the brand’s global innovation ecosystem and maintaining alignment through effective governance and communication.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required in one of the following disciplines: (Food Science, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, Innovation Management, Engineering, Supply Chain).
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in program management, innovation strategy, or governance roles within the QSR, foodservice, or CPG industries.
• Must have direct experience within the QSR food industry with a strong understanding of operational realities and franchise models.
• Proven track record managing high-complexity, cross-functional initiatives involving global stakeholders.
• Demonstrated success in leading governance forums, strategic supplier partnerships, and global innovation programs.
• Skills & Competencies: Exceptional organizational and leadership skills.
• Strong executive communication and influence across geographies and levels.
• Adept in collaboration, cultural fluency, and facilitation.
• Skilled in project/program management platforms and enterprise reporting tools.
• Deep appreciation for global brand standards and food innovation culture.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degrees and certifications (e.g., PMP, Lean Six Sigma) are a plus, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Program Management Design, manage, and continuously evolve the global innovation process, including stage gate governance and tools.
• Drive the execution of global innovation and transformation initiatives.
• Develop detailed program plans, milestones, stakeholder maps, and reporting structures.
• Track progress and remove barriers to ensure high-impact project delivery across diverse global teams.
• Global Food Innovation & Technology (FIT) Engagement Serve as the primary connector of the global FIT community, driving collaboration and best-practice sharing.
• Organize global summits, working groups, and community sessions to strengthen alignment.
• Create tools, newsletters, and dashboards to enable visibility, recognition, and transparency.
• Supplier Relationship & Stakeholder Management Lead strategic supplier engagement for global innovation partnerships.
• Maintain key business relationships and supplier accountability for timelines, innovation inputs, and escalations.
• Partner with Procurement and cross-functional teams to align innovation pipeline with supplier capabilities.
• Brand Standards Governance & Council Leadership Lead the operations, planning, and execution of the Global Brand Standards Council.
• Ensure timely review and alignment on brand direction, product strategy, and system standards.
• Build meeting agendas, synthesize outcomes, and ensure follow-up actions are completed across markets.
• Travel is required globally to support strategic planning, summits, supplier visits, and program reviews.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to innovate within a global brand and make a significant impact.
• Collaborative, fast-paced work environment with a focus on professional growth and development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees