Cassandra Rodriguez
Burlington
Summary
Innovative and results-driven Director of R&D with progressive experience in the food industry. Skilled in utilizing market trends and consumer insights to create award-winning products that spur growth and establish market leadership. Recognized for developing high-performance teams, improving product efficiency, and leading sustainability initiatives. Proficient in promoting cross-functional collaboration, implementing continuous improvement practices, and aligning R&D strategies with business objectives.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of R&D and Innovation
Bimbo Canada
07.2020 - Current
- Lead the R&D function for Bimbo Canada, overseeing bread categories and sensory/consumer testing
- Delivered 150+ successful product launches, including several Best New Product Award winners for various years.
- Pioneered ingredient innovation and optimized formulations for cost efficiency, shelf life, and nutritional value
- Championed sustainability initiatives, reducing waste and introducing clean-label trends
- Collaborated with marketing, procurement, and operations to align R&D goals with business objectives
- Mentored and developed a high-performing R&D team, fostering creativity and professional growth
- Managed project timelines, budgets, and multiple development pipelines simultaneously
Manager of Product Development
Bimbo Canada
11.2019 - 07.2020
- Oversaw product design and roadmap and coordinated aspects of development and rollout.
- Led successful product launches by coordinating with marketing, sales, and support teams to ensure a seamless rollout and positive customer experience.
Senior Project Manager, Consulting & Technical Services
NSF International
06.2017 - 08.2018
- Managed complex product/process development projects including sensory evaluation, shelf-life studies, and product testing
- Directed changes to project scope and cost and implemented appropriate change management processes to keep project on track.
Research and Development Consultant
Guelph Food Innovation Center
06.2016 - 06.2017
- Provided technical expertise and business solutions to leading food and beverage companies
- Led projects from concept feasibility through various stages of product development
Process Specialist – Technical Lead
Maple Leaf Consumer Foods
07.2013 - 10.2015
- Coordinated product testing, validation, and launch processes at a state-of-the-art facility
- Led the commissioning of new production lines and ensured quality consistency
Process Specialist
Maple Leaf Consumer Foods
01.2006 - 06.2013
- Optimized process efficiency by identifying bottlenecks and implementing improvements in workflows.
- Managed project timelines effectively, ensuring timely completion of critical process improvements without sacrificing quality or scope.
Education
Master of Food Science -
University of Guelph
01.2004
BSc - Food Engineering
Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education
01.2000
Skills
- Project Management
- R&D and Innovation
- Food Manufacturing
- Continuous Improvement
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- Sustainability & Cost Optimization
- People management
- Creativity and innovation
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
Accomplishments
- Best New Products Award: Recognized for multiple bakery innovations.
- Led Commissioning of New Production Lines: Ensured seamless product transfers.
- Cost Optimization Initiatives: Delivered over 10M savings through raw material and process improvements.
- Mentorship & Team Development: Built diverse and inclusive teams, and fostered a culture of continuous growth and innovation.
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Director of R&D and Innovation
Bimbo Canada
07.2020 - Current
Manager of Product Development
Bimbo Canada
11.2019 - 07.2020
Senior Project Manager, Consulting & Technical Services
NSF International
06.2017 - 08.2018
Research and Development Consultant
Guelph Food Innovation Center
06.2016 - 06.2017
Process Specialist – Technical Lead
Maple Leaf Consumer Foods
07.2013 - 10.2015
Process Specialist
Maple Leaf Consumer Foods
01.2006 - 06.2013
BSc - Food Engineering
Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education
Master of Food Science -
University of Guelph
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