R&D Manager - Food Industry

We are looking for an experienced R&D Manager to drive technical product development in the Food & Beverage industry. This role involves optimizing formulations, conducting sensory evaluations, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in food science, expertise in ingredient functionality, and proven success in managing projects across B2B and B2C channels. If you are passionate about food innovation and technical excellence, we want to hear from you.

Job Description

• Lead the R&D team in developing innovative food products that align with market trends and consumer preferences.
• Establish clear goals and objectives for the department, ensuring alignment with overall business strategies.
• Drive formula cost optimization projects, identifying opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or compliance.
• Implement best practices across the R&D function to enhance efficiency.
• Oversee the entire new product development life cycle, from concept ideation and theoretical recipe formulation to lab prototype testing and successful market launch.
• Ensure timely delivery of projects within budget.
• Review and approve finished product raw materials, labeling changes, specification sheets, and test methods, 
• Ensuring all products meet regulatory standards and company policies.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant regulations.
• Act as a thought partner to Marketing and Production Management, facilitating communication and collaboration to outline strategic initiatives for the Specialty and Durables businesses. Create actionable product roadmaps to meet business objectives.
• Conduct thorough market research to monitor competitor products, analyzing quality, pricing, and consumer feedback.
• Use insights to inform product development and positioning strategies.
• Stay updated of industry technological advancements and trends, integrating relevant findings into R&D practices to maintain competitive advantage.
• Perform comprehensive management duties, including performance evaluations, coaching, and staff development.
• Foster a safe and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation and teamwork.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with external partners, including suppliers and technical support centers, to leverage expertise and resources for enhanced product development.
• Ensure that all products meet quality standards and consumer expectations through rigorous testing and evaluation processes.