Director, Sensory & Consumer Science

We are seeking a visionary Director of Sensory & Consumer Science to lead the function that transforms consumer perception into competitive advantage. This leader will set the long-term vision for sensory, driving breakthrough insights into product development, packaging, and ensure consumer obsession remains at the core of our innovation and modernization strategy. Reporting to the VP of Applied Sciences, this role partners across R&D, Marketing, Consumer Insights, and Commercial to deliver growth through superior product experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Define and execute a long-term sensory strategy that supports innovation, renovation, and productivity across KDP.
• Drive sensory initiatives that directly support KDP’s strategic objectives and foster a challenger mindset across the organization.
• Inspire a forward-looking, resilient, and people-focused team culture.

Methodology & Standards

• Advance sensory methodologies, data analytics, and standards for product and packaging to ensure world-class capabilities.
• Translate complex sensory findings into clear, compelling insights that influence executive and cross-functional decisions.
• Establish and continuously refine product and packaging standards, KPIs, and agile processes to drive speed, quality, and consistency.
• Embed sensory tools and standards across the organization to accelerate innovation and renovation.

Collaboration & External Engagement

• Build and sustain a global network of universities, research institutes, and industry leaders to bring breakthrough practices into KDP.
• Provide expert guidance on complex proposals, tenders, and client presentations.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization, with strong influencing skills

Team Development & Leadership

• Mentor and grow a high-performing team of scientists, technicians, and external partners.
• Recruit and develop talent aligned with near-term goals and future aspirations.
• Champion process improvements and foster high-impact team behaviors.

Project & Resource Management

• Demonstrate strong project management skills to prioritize and guide key initiatives.
• Manage team resources and budgets efficiently to maximize impact and ROI.

• Salary Range: $155,500-220,000
• Actual placement within the compensation range may vary depending on experience, skills, and other factors
• Benefits, subject to election and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Paid Time Off (including paid parental leave, vacation, and sick time), 401k with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement
• Annual bonus based on performance and eligibility

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Sensory Science, Food Science, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in sensory and consumer science, preferably within the CPG industry
• 5+ years proven track record scaling and developing sensory strategies and teams
• Strong business acumen, leadership, and influencing skills across cross-functional teams
• Proven expertise and deep understanding of Sensory Insights, and utilization to achieve organizational business and strategic objectives
• Deep consumer empathy and a passion for crafting meaningful product experiences
• Familiarity with automation, machine learning, and digital olfaction using AI/ML to analyze sensory data preferred
• Sensory Panel management experience preferred
• Experience managing budgets, resources, and complex project portfolios.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed

Keurig Dr Pepper (NASDAQ: KDP) is a leading beverage company in North America, with a portfolio of more than 125 owned, licensed and partners brands and powerful distribution capabilities to provide a beverage for every need, anytime, anywhere. We operate with a differentiated business model and world-class brand portfolio, powered by a talented and engaged team that is anchored in our values. We work with big, exciting beverage brands and the #1 single-serve coffee brewing system in North America at KDP, and we have fun doing it!

Together, we have built a leading beverage company in North America offering hot and cold beverages together at scale. Whatever your area of expertise, at KDP you can be a part of a team that’s proud of its brands, partnerships, innovation, and growth. Will you join us?

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing a culture and opportunities that empower our team of ~29,000 employees to grow and develop. We offer robust benefits to support your health and wellness as well as your personal and financial well-being. We also provide employee programs designed to enhance your professional growth and development, while ensuring you feel valued, inspired and appreciated at work.

Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal opportunity employer and recruits qualified applicants and advances in employment its employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability or association with a person with a disability, medical condition, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.