Associate Innovation Planning Manager - Amazon

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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Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests, which may include drug screening, background check, credit check and DMV check.

If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us at NA.Accommodations@unilever.com. Please note: This email is reserved for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses. The Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities AAP narratives are available for inspection by any employee or applicant for employment Monday through Friday during normal business hours at establishment.

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