Consumer & Sensory Research Site Manager Bound Brook, NJ USA

SAM Sensory and Marketing International GmbH; Bound Brook (NJ); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic consultancy is seeking a Research Site Manager to lead the launch of a new Consumer & Sensory Testing Facility in Bound Brook, NJ. This role involves overseeing operations, managing staff, and ensuring top-tier service delivery. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and a background in facility management, with a focus on driving operational success from the ground up.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in hospitality or foodservice management.
• 3+ years in a management role.

Responsibilities

• Lead the launch of a new Consumer & Sensory Testing Facility.
• Manage day-to-day operations with a focus on efficiency.
• Hire and train site staff.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Problem Solving

Analytical Thinking

Team Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Sciences

Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality

Bachelor’s degree in Market Research

Bachelor’s degree in Management

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Consumer & Sensory Research Site Manager

Location: Bound Brook, NJ

SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy. Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and health & beauty products so to create high quality and memorable experiences. We help our clients:

• Develop new product ideas
• Re-energize a well-established product
• Assess product-concept fit or packaging effectiveness
• Understand the product, brand and category competitive landscapes
• Protect product quality through from inception through end of shelf life

SAM The National Food Lab is the division of SAM that provides these services for all USA-based clients. Our sensory science program resides in our USA headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.

The statements below reflect the general responsibilities and requirements of the Site Manager position but may not describe all the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.

We are seeking a dynamic, self-starting Research Site Manager to lead the launch of our brand-new Consumer & Sensory Testing Facility in Bound Brook, NJ.

As the site is currently in the construction phase, we’re looking for someone eager to take ownership of this exciting venture—someone who takes pride in building and organizing a facility from the ground up. This individual will play a key role in ensuring the site becomes fully operational, managing day-to-day operations with a focus on efficiency and seamless execution. It’s a unique opportunity to pave the way, implement best practices, and drive operational success from the start.

Position Overview:

Reporting to the Operations Director, the Consumer & Sensory Research Site Manager will be responsible for hiring and training site staff, managing logistical planning, establishing local fielding solutions for consumer testing, and supporting consumer database growth. This role also includes supervising the site team, implementing training programs, and continually refining field operations to ensure top-tier service delivery. We’re looking for a proactive, driven individual ready to lead with confidence, set the standard for operational excellence, and be a cornerstone of this innovative new location.

• Strong written communication skills for drafting clear, concise facility reports, real-time operational updates, and professional correspondence
• Confident interpersonal communicator with effective leadership and people management abilities
• Able to act as a leader through team work and peer collaboration
• Instinctual problem solving skills with a creative and solution-oriented mindset
• Analytical thinker with the ability to improve daily processes while able to envision larger organizational goals
• Inspires passion and driving excellence through their leading by example
• Sharp critical thinking skills with strong attention to detail
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other role-relevant software tools (e.g., scheduling, reporting, documentation)
• Advanced computer skills in additional Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Advanced experience in facility management, operation, and/or research logistics is highly preferred
• Exceptional team management and leadership skills
• Able to demonstrate well-developed multi-tasking and problem solving skills in fast-paced environment
• Proactiveness in taking initiative for result driven excellence
• Well refined written and verbal communication skills
• Experience or exposure to consumer research, market research, and/or event planning a plus but not required
• Willing and eager to work flexible hours in support of project needs, reflecting a strong commitment to drive and deliver results.

People Management & Communication:

• Well-developed team management skills for logistical needs- scheduling driven by the need for efficiency, and performance management though constructive feedback or effective discipline when appropriate
• Demonstrates strong business acumen by understanding the implications of decision-making, emphasizing the importance of profitability, and aligning work with strategic goals through market and competitive awareness.
• Exhibits professionalism through a tactful and composed approach while maintaining an easy manner while under pressure; consistently treating others with respect and consideration regardless of status or position.
• Consistent and effective communication when managing change, developing practical implementation plans and building commitment to overcome resistance. Able to prepare and support those affected by change through the ongoing evaluation of results.
• Organizing and action planning around prioritized goals and objectives, work activities, and shifting deadlines
• Communicates clearly and effectively across teams by balancing client and business needs with individual and team responsibilities. Demonstrates objectivity and openness to diverse perspectives, while actively contributing to a positive team environment—prioritizing collective success, fostering morale, and supporting shared goals.
• Values integrity and dependability, consistently taking ownership to support and fulfill the needs of both self and team.
• A Bachelor’s (4-year) degree in Food Sciences, Hospitality, Market, Research, Management or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in hospitality, foodservice management, facilities management, and/or consumer insights
• 3+ years in management role
• Must have prior supervisory experience and the ability to coordinate a variety of project tasks in an office environment.

Required Licenses or Certificates:

Valid Driver’s License and Proof of Insurance