Research and Development Manager

Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new fitness supplement products based on market trends, customer needs, and company goals.
• Design and execute product formulations in various formats (powder, capsule, tablet, RTD, etc.), including sourcing and testing of raw materials.
• Oversee lab-scale and pilot-scale trials, ensuring alignment with quality, taste, texture, solubility, and stability targets.
• Collaborate closely with QC, Production, Regulatory, and Marketing teams to ensure successful commercialization.
• Evaluate and approve new ingredients based on scientific data, supplier documentation, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage and improve existing product formulas based on customer feedback, cost optimization, or regulation updates.
• Lead technical presentations, internal product training, and provide R&D insights for brand storytelling or marketing materials.
• Monitor trends and competitor products to propose innovative product concepts and ensure company stays ahead in the market.
• Ensure all R&D documentation is accurate and audit-ready, including specifications, trial reports, and SOPs.
• Build and manage a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation, agility, and accountability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Technology, Nutrition, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of proven experience in R&D, especially in the dietary supplement, nutraceutical, or functional food industry.
• Strong understanding of supplement formulations including protein blends, BCAAs, vitamins and other active ingredients.
• In-depth knowledge of food and supplement regulations (BPOM, Halal, GMP, HACCP) and product registration requirements.
• Experience in product lifecycle management from concept, formulation, pilot scale-up, to market launch.
• Skilled in analyzing ingredient functionality, product stability, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life studies.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and cross-functional communication skills.
• Familiarity with trends in sports nutrition, health supplements, and consumer behavior.
• Proficient in documentation, technical writing, and preparation of dossiers for regulatory approvals.
• Strong network with raw material suppliers, laboratories, or external research institutions is a plus.