Ernie Cutro Email & Phone Number

Lake Zurich, Illinois, United States

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Downers Grove, Il

Manage and lead an R&D team of five to six Food Technologists in the development and commercialization of new products across Innovation, Renovation, and Productivity platforms. Products developed include Dairy and Plant Protein, and Keto in the ready to eat (RTE) space of bars, bites, almonds, and powder formats, from concept through execution. Collaborate with current network of RTE co-manufacturers to ensure flawless execution of new product launches and reformulation initiatives. Identify and qualify new RTE co-manufacturers as needed to unlock capacity needs for the business. Develop and contribute to strategy of the R&D organization for future platform growth in key consumer white space and need state areas.

Selected to build and lead R&D team of 3 Food Scientists and 1 Engineer with accountability for the Productivity agenda for the entire Quaker Oats portfolio of brands. Worked with business partners to align on strategy, priorities, and deliver plan.*Drove the development and execution of the Productivity annual ($5MM -$10MM) and pipeline ($40MM -$50MM) cost savings agendas for the Quaker Oats business.*Delivered consistent year on year R&D cost savings averaging $8MM - $10MM through product and process value engineering Productivity projects.

*Provided product development and project management expertise by developing concepts and prototypes, leading plant trials, and commercialization of new products for market launch to consumers.*Lead food scientist for Quaker Oats Innovation, including Quaker Rice Cakes, Quaker Chewy Bars, and Quaker Baked Bars.Lead food scientist for Quaker Oats Productivity, including Quaker Instant Oatmeal, Quaker RTE Cereals, Golden Grain, and Aunt Jemima.*Experienced in popped, cold form, baking, blending, and extrusion applications and manufacturing processes.

Bachelor’S Degree, Biology

Education record