Some might say that the R&D team is the brains of a company. They wouldn’t be wrong! This dynamic group of innovators takes on an array of company-constructing tasks, such as researching marketing trends, staying ahead of consumer demands, being fluent in yummy flavor combinations, coordinating with vendors, upholding standards for product quality, and assisting with the timeline of projected sales. Though they are one of the smallest teams in the company in terms of team members, they are mighty in their impact and extensive reach across all departments.
Amanda Moline – R&D + Quality Assurance Specialist
When did you start working at LesserEvil? June 2020
What is your background (schooling, internships, previous jobs)? I started at LesserEvil 2 years ago as a packer on the production lines. I had the opportunity to become a machine operator and supervisor on the production shift where I began to find a love of promoting quality and food safety. From there, I became the R&D and Quality Assurance specialist. In this position, I focus on our amazing products! When I’m not at LesserEvil, I am a biology student at Western Connecticut State University concentrating on environmental sciences.
What made you choose this field? I began in this field to try something new and see the science behind the products. This turned out to be an exciting field where my skills and passions flourished.
What is your favorite part about working at LesserEvil? Every day is different, as there are always exciting things happening here!
What does a typical day look like for you? A typical day starts off with class in the morning and then focusing at the factory where I meet with staff to look at our current production. I spend most of my time in one of the R&D labs, which consists of making new products, trying new ideas, and having fun making our newest adventure – bars!
What is your favorite LesserEvil snack? My favorite product is still a secret!
What is one concept, idea, or lesson you recently learned that you believe to be important enough to share? Don’t stress over the little things!
Chris Lockwood Product Development and Compliance Manager
When did you start working at LesserEvil? June 2020
What is your background (schooling, internships, previous jobs)? I have always enjoyed cooking, so I decided to go to culinary school in New York City. After culinary school, I worked in hospitality, including restaurants (Gramercy Tavern and Tribeca Grill) and hotels while getting my master’s degree in Food Studies from NYU. All together, I’ve worked in the food industry for almost 20 years.
What made you choose this field? I enjoy food! It brings people together.
What is your favorite part about working at LesserEvil? In my role, I enjoy the fact that I get to work and collaborate with all of the departments throughout the company, from accounting, to marketing, sales, ops, warehouse, and factory.
What does a typical day look like for you? No day is the same for me, but typically I am working on our next new product launch. This includes ensuring everything is moving along and within our timeline.
What is your favorite LesserEvil snack? Himalayan Pink Popcorn. It is simple – just three ingredients – and delicious.
What is one concept, idea, or lesson you recently learned that you believe to be important enough to share? Failure is the tuition you pay for success
Natalie Tedino – Product Development and Compliance Coordinator
When did you start working at LesserEvil? March 2022
What is your background (schooling, internships, previous jobs)? I spent 17 years in the food retail industry with an emphasis on fresh produce and snacks. I am also a Crossfit coach at a local gym, which I absolutely love and look forward to every week! I am currently in a small Nutrition Program and look forward to expanding my knowledge further with a Food Science degree.
What made you choose this field? I LOVE SNACKS!!
What is your favorite part about working at LesserEvil? I absolutely adore the people I work with. I also love creating snacks that people enjoy.
What does a typical day look like for you? I usually start my day off at the gym or out for a run. Right now, we are in the process of creating our first bar line, so I spend a lot of time at the beginning of my day in our bar lab making some very tasty samples! I usually make one or two trips over to our factory to work in the lab creating fun and delicious new snacks! When I am done with my day, I am usually either back at the gym, relaxing at home, or hanging with my boyfriend and our new puppy
What is your favorite LesserEvil snack? That’s a tough one! It’s a tie between the Himalayan Gold and the Vegan Nacho Sun Poppers.
What is one concept, idea, or lesson you recently learned that you believe to be important enough to share? Patience will always be your best friend
