Research And Development Manager

The R&D Junior Manager is responsible for executing end-to-end research and development initiatives across assigned markets. This includes, but is not limited to, product development and technology transfer, menu architecture completion, establishment of product standards within regional guidelines, development of store operating procedures, and driving product and process improvements to support supply sustainability and cost efficiency. The role also provides critical support to supply chain operations through localization and development of raw materials and packaging, supplier management, manufacturing support, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Menu Architecture Completion

• Lead the development of new products from concept to full-scale production
• Initiate or participate in product ideation sessions with suppliers and cross-functional teams
• Develop and standardize commercial processes for approved product profiles
• Manage timelines for new product launches in alignment with regional marketing calendars
• Define and implement product and quality standards within established regional parameters
• Establish product costings and support gross margin targets
• Create and manage project plans, identifying key milestones, risks, and resource needs
• Identify critical control points related to food safety and product quality
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain) to support product launches
• Document formulations, manufacturing processes, and product standards
• Support and facilitate product approval processes across markets

R&D Support for Supply Chain

• Assess supplier capabilities, conduct audits, and evaluate performance based on product requirements
• Recommend improvements in raw materials, formulations, or processes based on findings
• Develop product standards and process parameters for third-party manufacturers
• Source and develop alternative raw materials and packaging solutions to ensure supply continuity
• Explore and recommend new technologies for product and process improvement
• Establish finished goods inspection protocols and conduct product stability testing
• Develop and maintain raw material specifications
• Ensure proper documentation and strict confidentiality of all technical data

Product Technology Transfer

• Execute commercial-scale transfer of products to manufacturing facilities and third-party processors
• Define costing inputs, including material usage, preparation time, and production yields
• Establish quality control measures for manufacturing and finished goods
• Identify critical process points impacting safety and quality
• Document all product formulations, standards, and manufacturing procedures
• Ensure accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality of all technical documentation
• Manage compliance requirements aligned with country-specific regulations

Product and Process Improvement

• Conduct market and competitor analysis to identify trends and opportunities
• Lead reformulation or process enhancements to improve quality, efficiency, and cost
• Implement localization strategies for raw materials and packaging
• Evaluate and recommend new equipment, tools, or technologies
• Conduct product validation and stability testing for improvements
• Develop and standardize operating procedures and portion guidelines
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives to support regional business goals

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure product labeling complies with applicable regulations in each market
• Develop and maintain required documentation (e.g., allergen declarations, compliance records)
• Stay updated on food safety and regulatory requirements across assigned regions
• Ensure proper documentation of all materials used in production and distribution

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Technology, Chemistry, or any related field
• At least 5 years of supervisory experience in R&D and Quality Assurance within the food or manufacturing industry
• Professional license (e.g., Food Technologist) is an advantage but not required
• Willing to work in a hybrid arrangement based in Ortigas, Pasig City