R&D Manager

For our client operating in the food industry, we are seeking an experienced R&D Manager who will lead product development activities, establish and manage the R&D organization, and drive innovation initiatives across the company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and implement the company's R&D strategy in line with business objectives.
• Lead new product development projects from concept to commercialization.
• Drive product reformulation, optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives for existing products.
• Research and evaluate new ingredients, raw materials, packaging solutions, and production technologies.
• Establish, structure, and continuously improve the R&D department and its processes.
• Build, lead, mentor, and develop the R&D team.
• Manage pilot trials, validation studies, and industrialization processes to ensure successful product launches.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Quality, Procurement, and Marketing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations.
• Monitor industry trends, consumer insights, and technological developments to identify innovation opportunities.
• Manage R&D budgets, project timelines, and resource allocation effectively.
• Provide regular reports, technical recommendations, and strategic insights to senior management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Engineering.
• Minimum 15 years of experience within the food industry.
• Proven experience in sauces, pickles, and canned food products , including product and process development.
• Demonstrated experience in establishing and developing an R&D department from the ground up.
• Strong background in building, leading, and managing high-performing teams.
• Good command of English , both written and spoken.
• Extensive experience in new product development, formulation, and process improvement.
• Solid knowledge of food safety standards, quality systems, and relevant food regulations.
• Experience in project management and budget planning.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management capabilities.

Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking
• Leadership and Team Management
• Innovation & Product Development
• Project Management
• Problem Solving
• Results Orientation
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Effective Communication