Senior Director - Scientific And Regulatory Affairs - Usc & Latam Location: NY, US IL, US UT, US NM, US MO, US OR, US ME, US WI, US TN, US ID, US NE, US WA, US NV, US TX, US VA, US GA, US CO, US IA, US PA, US NC, US PR, US AZ, US SC, US FL, US IN, US CA, US MD, US LA, US WV, US KY, US DE, US CT, US WY, US NJ, US AR, US AL, US MI, US MA, US MS, US OH, US MN, US SD, US KS, US NH, US OK, US MT, US RI, US Purpose Statement This is a working senior director's role to drive our USC and LATAM scientific and regulatory affairs strategies, ensuring compliance with food regulations while advancing Rich's growth initiatives that require freedom to operate across borders. The ideal candidate will possess strong regulatory knowledge, scientific expertise and proven leadership skills to guide our organization through complex regulatory landscapes. Must have the ability to work cross-functionally and culturally to support innovation projects and regulatory/legislative advocacy initiatives as needed. Key Accountabilities And Outcomes Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of 10-12 regulatory affairs professionals and scientists across the USC and LATAM regions. Foster a culture of collaboration, regulatory excellence, and continuous learning. Collaborates closely with SRA leadership team, RIC Business Partners, RIC CoEs and Generations of Good team to develop and execute the scientific and regulatory affairs strategy for USC and LATAM, ensuring alignment with regional business objectives and the company's global vision. Lead regulatory strategies across the diverse markets within North and South America. Oversee and manage regulatory submissions/petitions, product approvals, and market access for all food products in key markets, including the U.S., Canada, and countries across South America and the Caribbean. Develop and execute the external scientific and regulatory influencing strategy related to food ingredients, packaging and contaminants legislation in the region. Work with internal partners to understand priorities and impacts of developing legislation. Represent Rich Products in regional scientific and regulatory forums, industry associations, and governmental meetings. Advocate for the company's positions on food ingredients, packaging and contaminants, labeling, and nutrition legislation across USC and LATAM regions. Leverage horizon scanning strategies and tools to identify SRA trends and recommend proactive measures to address them. Develop risk mitigation strategies and provide actionable solutions. Communicate business impact and drive for solutions that benefit USC and Global business growth. Work closely with R&D, legal, and commercial teams to support product development and innovation in the regions, ensuring that regulatory and scientific standards are met while facilitating speed-to-market. Develop SOPs on SRA related activities to drive clarity around execution and to increase speed-to-market. Monitor relevant Codex Alimentarius Committees to identify standards development work that impact the company's products and/or global business interests. Proactively identify opportunities for system automation and process improvements. Ensure products comply with Rich's standards as well as global, regional, and local food legislation and regulations. Perform other related responsibilities, as needed, to support the company's business objectives Knowledge, Skills, And Experience Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field (chemistry, biology, microbiology, food science). Preferred Skills - Advanced degree (MSc, Ph.D., or equivalent) in a scientific or technical discipline (e.g., life sciences, chemistry, nutrition, toxicology). Minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in scientific and regulatory affairs, preferably in a global setting. Direct people management experience. Proven experience leading global regulatory strategies, submissions, and approvals across multiple geographies (e.g., US, Canada, LATAM). Deep understanding of global regulatory frameworks, scientific principles, and technical expertise expected in FDA, USDA, Codex and other LATAM regulations An excellent mentor with an ability to bring divergent views together. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills; ability to develop and maintain effective professional relations with colleagues and third-party suppliers at all levels across the business. Strategic thinking with the ability to analyze and mitigate complex scientific and regulatory challenges. Effective stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills. Fluency in English required. In addition, proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese preferred.