Sodastream: R&D Project Manager

Overview (English)

At Sodastream, part of PepsiCo, we’re looking for a strategic and execution-focused R&D Project Manager who can bridge technical expertise and executive leadership, driving complex innovation programs while aligning senior stakeholders across R&D, commercial, and cross-functional teams.

In this role, you will serve as a key interface between R&D, commercial, and cross-functional teams, ensuring the successful delivery of new product and technology initiatives from concept through commercialization. You will lead program planning, governance, risk management, and stakeholder alignment across a diverse portfolio of innovation projects.

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Responsibilities (English)

• Lead end-to-end program management for R&D initiatives, from concept development through commercialization.
• Drive cross-functional alignment between R&D, commercial, operations, legal, and other key stakeholders to ensure successful program execution.
• Facilitate stage-gate and agile development processes, ensuring adherence to governance standards and decision-making frameworks.
• Support intellectual property activities in partnership with Legal and R&D teams, including patent-related processes and freedom-to-operate assessments.
• Conduct detailed technical and business reviews of high-priority projects, providing insights and recommendations to leadership teams.
• Monitor open issues, risk resolution progress, and program health indicators, and provide regular status updates to senior leadership.
• Prepare and deliver program updates, progress reports, and executive-level presentations to support business decisions.
• Promote best practices, consistent documentation, and operational excellence across the R&D project portfolio.

Qualifications (English)

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in R&D project or program management within consumer products, hardware or technology
• Proven track record leading cross-functional new product development programs from concept through market launch.
• Strong experience with stage-gate and/or agile program management methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders, align competing priorities, and drive execution across complex organizations.
• Experience supporting intellectual property processes, including patent filings, portfolio activities, or freedom-to-operate evaluations.
• Strong technical acumen with the ability to understand, challenge, and guide complex engineering and product development discussions.
• Proficiency with project management and portfolio management tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, Smartsheet, or similar platforms.

About us

Sodastream is on a mission to revolutionize the beverage industry by reducing single-use plastic and empowering consumers to make more sustainable choices. As part of PepsiCo, we bring together innovation, creativity, and collaboration to shape smarter beverage experiences across dozens of markets worldwide.