Manager Product Application Cheese - Continental Cheese

dsm-firmenich; Delft; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sustainability-focused organization

Flexible work environment

Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Job summary

dsm-firmenich is looking for a Manager Product Application Cheese to serve as a key technical expert for Continental semi-hard cheese types. You will work closely with customers to optimize cheese production and provide application support.

The position requires a university degree in Food Technology, 8+ years of experience in dairy manufacturing, and project management skills. Join a company dedicated to sustainability and innovation, fostering a culture of inclusion and personal growth.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in a dairy (ingredient) company with expertise in semi-hard cheese manufacturing.
• Proven experience in project management and collaboration with commercial teams.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Dutch and additional languages is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Act as the global technical expert for semi-hard cheese types.
• Support customers in optimizing cheese production using company solutions.
• Conduct application trials and performance evaluations.

Skills

Cheese technology

Project management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

University degree in Food Technology or related field

Job description

Job title

Manager Product Application Cheese – Continental Cheese

Location

Europe

Overview

At dsm-firmenich, we combine scientific excellence with a passion for food innovation. Within our Ingredient Solutions organization, we are seeking a Manager Product Application Cheese who will serve as our key technical expert for Continental semi‑hard cheese types—including Gouda, Edam, Maasdam and related varieties. In this role, you will work closely with customers and internal teams to translate cheesemaking expertise and ingredient knowledge into high‑impact application support, new products and technical solutions.

Your key responsibilities

• Act as the global technical expert for Continental (semi‑hard) cheese types, providing deep application knowledge on processes, cultures, coagulants, and ingredient functionality.
• Support customers in optimizing cheese production using dsm‑firmenich cultures, enzymes, and ingredient solutions.
• Cooperate with our technical team to conduct application trials, troubleshooting, and performance evaluations in our laboratories as well as at customer sites.
• Translate customer needs and challenges into structured technical projects in collaboration with R&D, commercial teams, and marketing.
• Manage and coordinate your own portfolio of technical projects, ensuring timely and high‑quality delivery.
• Deliver high‑quality technical documentation, reports, and insights that support customer adoption and product positioning.
• Support technical sales with compelling data, demonstrations, and expert guidance.

We offer

• A Purpose‑Driven Mission – Be part of an organization where sustainability is more than a goal—it’s embedded in our strategy and daily practices, empowering you to make a real impact on the world around you.
• Flexibility with Ownership – A specialist role with global impact in shaping the future of Continental cheese application—thriving in a flexible work environment that encourages you to take ownership, drive accountability, and maintain a healthy work‑life balance.
• A Legacy of Innovation – Join a company with a rich history of scientific breakthroughs, where your technical expertise directly contributes to growth, innovation and co‑creations with our customers.
• Room to Grow – Develop your potential in a culture that values curiosity and supports continuous personal and professional growth.
• Well‑Being at the Core – Work in an environment where safety and well‑being—both physical and mental—are prioritized and genuinely cared for.
• A Truly Inclusive Culture – Belong to a community where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of background, beliefs, or identity. Diversity is not just welcomed, it’s celebrated.

You bring

• A university degree in Food Technology (or a related field), preferably with a specialization in dairy.
• 8+ years of experience in a dairy (ingredient) company, with hands‑on expertise in semi‑hard cheese manufacturing and a strong understanding of cheese technology, production and product development.
• Proven experience in project management and effective collaboration with commercial teams.
• Proactive, practical problem‑solver with excellent communication skills, able to clearly translate technical concepts for diverse audiences.
• Fluency in English; Dutch and additional languages are a strong advantage.
• Willingness to travel internationally when needed.

Equal opportunity statement

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement – At dsm‑firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you. And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.