Head of Research & Development

Job Purpose:

Leads Malee Group’s research, development, and innovation agenda across all product categories, driving consumer-centric and commercially successful innovations from concept to launch. Responsible for overseeing product development, formulation, commercialization, and continuous improvement while ensuring technical excellence, product quality, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute R&D and innovation strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Lead end-to-end product development, commercialization, renovation, and cost optimization initiatives.
• Provide technical leadership in formulation, processing technology, food safety, quality, and product stability.
• Translate consumer insights, market trends, and scientific advancements into innovative, commercially viable products.
• Build partnerships with suppliers, universities, and research institutions to accelerate innovation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and advise senior management on innovation and technology opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, food safety, and quality requirements while driving continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of food regulations, quality management systems, and international food safety standards.
• Minimum 15 years of R&D experience in the food, beverage, dairy, or consumer goods industry, including leadership responsibilities.
• Proficient in Thai and English, both written and spoken.
• Proven expertise in product formulation, food processing, commercialization, quality systems, and innovation management.
• Experience in dairy manufacturing and/or multinational food and beverage organizations is preferred.
• Strong understanding of stage-gate innovation processes, consumer-led innovation, and portfolio management.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical and manufacturing challenges using scientific and data-driven approaches.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, project management, analytical, and business acumen skills.
• Passion for innovation, continuous learning, and emerging food technologies.