Chocolate Innovation Project Leader

Mars Incorporated in; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 101,000 - 139,000; Full time

Job summary

Mars Incorporated in Chicago seeks a Senior Project Manager to lead planning and execution of complex innovation projects in the Chocolate category, guiding cross-functional teams from ideation to delivery.

You will own timelines, resources, risk management, and stakeholder communications, driving value creation and operational efficiencies while aligning with strategic objectives.

The role offers a comprehensive compensation package with base salary USD 101,120 to 139,040 plus benefits.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of project management experience on innovation programs.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Project for planning and scenario planning.
• Experience with Idea to Market End-to-End process.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Senior Project Manager for the chocolate portfolio, driving execution that supports growth and business priorities.
• Take ownership of high-complexity initiatives from charter through post-launch review.
• Lead cross-functional teams to align on scope, resources, and timelines.
• Conduct risk assessments and proactively resolve issues to ensure project resilience.
• Escalate issues and risks to stakeholders and leadership while minimizing disruption.
• Act as gatekeeper of Stage & Gate framework and PPM system to drive disciplined execution.
• Collaborate with portfolio managers to support the 3+3 growth pipeline for Chocolate.
• Identify and prioritize projects and resource allocations to optimize value.
• Integrate pipeline goals into broader organizational strategies.
• Own and monitor item setup and tracking through GTM processes.
• Lead continuous improvements in ways of working and value creation.

Skills

Project Management

Cross-Functional Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Risk Management

Communication

Ambiguity Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

Job description

Mars Incorporated in Chicago seeks a Senior Project Manager to lead planning and execution of complex innovation projects in the Chocolate category, guiding cross-functional teams from ideation to delivery.

You will own timelines, resources, risk management, and stakeholder communications, driving value creation and operational efficiencies while aligning with strategic objectives.

The role offers a comprehensive compensation package with base salary USD 101,120 to 139,040 plus benefits.