Our client is a leading global food production and seasonings company dedicated to providing high-quality food products to consumers across the world. They seek a highly skilled and motivated Research and Development Director to lead their R&D team in Sharjah, UAE.Key Responsibilities:Lead and manage the research and development team for Meat products, including ideation, formulation, development, and optimization of new flavors and seasoning blends.Develop and implement strategic plans for product innovation and development in alignment with company goals.Design experiments, sensory evaluations, and consumer tests to assess new products.Conduct market research and analysis to identify trends, consumer preferences, and opportunities for product innovation.Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marketing, production, quality assurance, and supply chain to develop and launch new products.Manage the product development process from concept to commercialization, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.Conduct feasibility studies, formulation experiments, and product testing to optimize product quality, taste, texture, and shelf-life.Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, research institutions, and industry partners to support innovation and knowledge exchange.Monitor and analyze competitor products and activities to identify competitive threats and opportunities.Experience and Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related fieldMinimum 8 years of experience in developing Meat seasonings and marinades Strong knowledge of food science, food chemistry, food microbiology, and food processing technologies.Proven track record of successful product development and commercialization.Excellent project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.Familiarity with regulatory requirements and food safety standards.Ability to manage and coordinate multiple shipments and routes.Analytical and problem-solving skills.Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends as necessary.Valid driver's license and willingness to travel as needed.