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Background and Purpose of the Job
The Associate Innovation Manager – Amazon (dComm) owns the end-to-end execution of the innovation pipeline for eCommerce, ensuring seamless delivery from concept to launch and post-launch performance.
The role sits at the interface of Supply Chain, Marketing, R&D, CD,and Amazon, translating innovation plans into executable actions that deliver OTIF, speed to market, and profitability.
By combining supply chain expertise, Amazon execution knowledge, and process innovation (e.g., Handshake automation), this role ensures that innovations are launched efficiently, supported with the right inventory and forecasting, and optimized for Amazon performance.
The role plays a critical part in driving dCommerce growth, improving customer experience, and enabling scalable, data-driven innovation processes.
Who You Are and What Will You Do
You’re a dot connector
Bridge Supply Chain, R&D, CD, Planning, and Amazon
Translate innovation requirements into executable supply chain actions
Align stakeholders on timelines, risks, and trade-offs
You’re a delivery owner
Own E2E innovation execution from Product ideation→ B2R → FDTC → launch
Ensure OTIF, readiness, dispatch, 5S savings performance targets
Drive accountability across all stakeholders
You’re a change maker
Identify process gaps and implement scalable solutions
Lead automation initiatives (e.g., Handshake file)
Simplify workflows and reduce manual effort
You’re data-driven
Use data to manage pipeline, risks, and performance
Improve forecast accuracy and launch outcomes
Track KPIs and drive continuous improvement
You love to win, and have fun doing it
Deliver high-impact results in a fast-paced environment
Own innovation success end-to-end
Bring energy, ownership, and a growth mindset
Job Responsibilities
Innovation Pipeline Management
Own and manage innovation projects end-to-end from concept through launch and post-launch evaluation
Ensure all supply chain components (sourcing, capacity, procurement, inventory) are aligned for launch
Deliver innovation OTIF, readiness, and dispatch rate targets
Amazon Launch Execution
Lead B2R (Born-to-Run) and FDTC execution for Amazon launches
Ensure ASIN readiness, Vendor Central setup, and launch compliance
Partner with Amazon on forecasting, launch prioritization, and delivery appointments
Transition Management (Hard & Soft)
Manage hard and soft transitions for innovation and portfolio changes
Ensure seamless runout of old SKUs and onboarding of new SKUs
Minimize service risk, excess inventory, and disruption
Cross-Functional Coordination
Partner with:
R&D (product readiness + testing)
Planning (forecast + supply positioning)
CD/Brand (launch alignment)
Procurement / Factories / 3PM
Strategic & Innovation Planning
Drive clarity on timelines, risks, and dependencies
Innovation Risk & Readiness Management
Identify and mitigate risks across:
Supply chain readiness
Packaging / compliance
Forecast / demand signals
Ensure innovation meets all operational and customer requirements
Handshake / Process Automation
Own and evolve Handshake file and innovation tracking tools
Reduce manual inputs and improve visibility across stakeholders
Drive efficiency and standardization across innovation processes
Portfolio & Performance Optimization
Support SKU rationalization and portfolio simplification
Drive Gross Margin improvement through innovation planning decisions
Balance complexity vs growth opportunities
Data, Reporting & Governance
Track innovation KPIs:
OTIF
Readiness
Dispatch Rate
B2R timing
Provide regular updates to leadership on pipeline health and risks
Maintain accurate and accessible tracking systems
What You’ll Need to Succeed
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field
2–5 years experience in Supply Chain / Innovation / eCommerce / Operations
Strong project management and stakeholder leadership skills
Strong interpersonal and relationship management abilities
Experience working cross-functionally (R&D, Planning, CD, Amazon preferred)
Pay: The pay range for this position is $88,600 to $133,000. Unilever takes into consideration a wide range of factors that are utilized in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, qualifications and education, and other business and organizational needs.
Bonus: This position is bonus eligible.
Benefits: Unilever employees are eligible to participate in our benefits plan. Should the employee choose to participate, they can choose from a range of benefits to include, but is not limited to, health insurance (including prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage), retirement savings benefits, life insurance and disability benefits, parental leave, sick leave, paid vacation and holidays, as well as access to numerous voluntary benefits. Any coverages for health insurance and retirement benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
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At Unilever, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive/succeed. All applicants will receive fair and respectful consideration, and we actively support the growth and development of every employee.
Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities.
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