Senior Manager, Technical Consumer Data Research (Nutrition)

The Coca-Cola Company; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta seeks a Senior Manager, Technical Consumer Data Research (TCDR) to lead consumer-centric research strategies and inform Global Nutrition innovations. You will partner with R&D, Marketing, and Human Insights to translate data into actionable insights that shape beverage solutions.

You will apply advanced analytics, AI-driven tools, and sensory science to generate robust evidence, influence product and packaging decisions, and drive first-time-right initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Behavioral Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience within the FMCG or Beverage industry, with proven expertise in sensory and consumer research applied to innovation.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical techniques, predictive modeling, and advanced data analytics using tools such as JMP, SPSS, R, Python, SQL, and Power BI.
• Demonstrated experience applying AI and machine learning techniques (e.g., NLP, predictive modeling, image recognition, generative AI) to derive insights from structured and unstructured datasets.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical consumer data research initiatives for Global Nutrition, building robust learning plans that address key business priorities.
• Translate strategic questions into actionable sensory and consumer research programs using advanced methodologies and digital-first approaches.
• Leverage statistical modeling, AI, and machine learning techniques to synthesize structured and unstructured data into actionable insights and risk-based recommendations.
• Drive integration of consumer voice into the innovation pipeline, influencing product, packaging, and equipment development decisions to ensure consumer relevance and “first-time-right” outcomes.
• Execute advanced research designs (qualitative and quantitative) using parametric/non-parametric analytics, multivariate modeling, and predictive analytics for innovation performance forecasting.
• Serve as the functional lead for data-driven storytelling, translating complex technical findings into clear recommendations and frameworks for senior stakeholders.
• Champion adoption of emerging technologies and novel methodologies, partnering with the Global TCDR Capabilities team to scale AI-enabled tools and agile research practices.
• Design and deliver competitive benchmarking programs to uncover consumer drivers of choice, market trends, and whitespace opportunities.
• Collaborate across Marketing, R&D, and Human Insights to embed a consumer‑centric innovation mindset within project teams and operating units.
• Drive engagement in global TCDR forums, contributing to methodological advancement and capability-building initiatives across categories and regions.

Skills

Sensory research

Data analytics

AI/ML techniques

Statistical modeling

Experiment design

Stakeholder communication

Power BI

Python

R

SQL

Education

Master's degree in Food Science or related

Tools

JMP

SPSS

R

Python

SQL

Power BI

Job description

The Coca‑Cola Company, innovation starts with the consumer, and we are passionate about translating deep insights into breakthrough solutions that shape the future of beverages globally. In a world where consumer expectations are rapidly evolving, our ability to innovate confidently depends on a rich understanding of taste, experience, and behavior informed by powerful data and science.

As Senior Manager, Technical Consumer Data Research (TCDR), you will drive consumer‑centric research strategies that influence high‑impact innovations for Global Nutrition portfolio. Reporting to the Senior Director, TCDR NAOU, this role serves as a strategic business partner and trusted technical expert, ensuring that every innovation decision is rooted in robust sensory and consumer evidence.

You will lead cutting‑edge research methodologies, applying advanced analytics, AI‑driven tools, and sensory science expertise to generate actionable insights that enable “right-first-time” innovation. Working at the nexus of R&D, Marketing, Human Insights, and Global Development & Innovation teams, you will shape solutions that anticipate consumer needs and deliver exceptional experiences. This position offers the opportunity to influence long‑term category strategies, integrate future‑forward digital capabilities, and elevate the role of technical consumer insights in shaping global beverage innovation.

What You’ll Do For Us

• Lead technical consumer data research initiatives for Global Nutrition, building robust learning plans that address key business priorities
• Translate strategic questions into actionable sensory and consumer research programs using advanced methodologies and digital-first approaches
• Leverage statistical modeling, AI, and machine learning techniques to synthesize structured and unstructured data into actionable insights and risk-based recommendations
• Drive integration of consumer voice into the innovation pipeline, influencing product, packaging, and equipment development decisions to ensure consumer relevance and “first-time-right” outcomes
• Execute advanced research designs (qualitative and quantitative) using parametric/non-parametric analytics, multivariate modeling, and predictive analytics for innovation performance forecasting
• Serve as the functional lead for data-driven storytelling, translating complex technical findings into clear recommendations and frameworks for senior stakeholders
• Champion adoption of emerging technologies and novel methodologies, partnering with the Global TCDR Capabilities team to scale AI-enabled tools and agile research practices
• Design and deliver competitive benchmarking programs to uncover consumer drivers of choice, market trends, and whitespace opportunities
• Collaborate across Marketing, R&D, and Human Insights to embed a consumer‑centric innovation mindset within project teams and operating units
• Drive engagement in global TCDR forums, contributing to methodological advancement and capability-building initiatives across categories and regions

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Behavioral Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field
• 10+ years of relevant experience within the FMCG or Beverage industry, with proven expertise in sensory and consumer research applied to innovation
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical techniques, predictive modeling, and advanced data analytics using tools such as JMP, SPSS, R, Python, SQL, and Power BI
• Demonstrated experience applying AI and machine learning techniques (e.g., NLP, predictive modeling, image recognition, generative AI) to derive insights from structured and unstructured datasets
• Deep understanding of consumer‑centric innovation frameworks, behavioral science methodologies, and sensory evaluation principles
• Ability to design and execute large‑scale quantitative research studies and integrate findings into actionable innovation strategies
• Exceptional skills in technical communication and data storytelling—turning complex analytics into simple, compelling narratives for business decision‑making
• Advanced influencing and stakeholder management capabilities, with success in navigating matrixed organizations and aligning cross‑functional teams
• Passion for adopting new technologies and an agile mindset to challenge conventional approaches and accelerate learning cycles
• Strong critical‑thinking, problem‑solving skills, and the ability to balance technical depth with strategic business relevance

What We’ll Do For You

• Provide an opportunity to set the research agenda for two critical growth categories, bringing consumer insight to the forefront of innovation
• Offer exposure to cutting‑edge AI, digital analytics platforms, and sensory science applications within a global research and development ecosystem
• Enable collaboration with senior leaders and diverse teams across geographies, shaping consumer‑driven decisions that impact billions of consumers worldwide
• Invest in continuous development through involvement in advanced methodologies, global knowledge‑sharing communities, and technical leadership opportunities