Head of R&D; Product Innovation

Overview

Monroe Consulting Group Indonesia, an executive recruitment consultant firm, is recruiting on behalf of a leading food & beverages manufacturing company. As part of its ongoing business expansion, our client is seeking a Head of Product Development to lead innovation and product development. This position will be based in Jakarta, Indonesia.

• Lead the research, innovation, and development of new products across biscuit, snack, and liquid beverage categories in line with business objectives and evolving market trends.
• Oversee the entire product development process, including formulation, sensory testing, shelf-life analysis, and product optimization to ensure high standards of taste, texture, and quality.
• Manage and coordinate product trials from laboratory scale to pilot and full production scale, evaluating results and implementing improvements where necessary.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams such as Business Development, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Operations to ensure successful product launches and commercialization.
• Analyze consumer insights, competitive products, and industry developments to identify opportunities for product innovation and portfolio enhancement.
• Ensure all product developments comply with local and international food safety standards, regulatory requirements, nutritional guidelines, and labeling regulations.
• Lead initiatives focused on cost efficiency and product value optimization while maintaining quality and product consistency.
• Provide technical support to resolve production challenges and contribute to continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.
• Manage and mentor a team of product development professionals to drive innovation and operational excellence.

• Bachelor s degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Nutrition, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in product development or R&D within the food or FMCG industry, particularly in snacks, biscuits, or dairy/liquid beverages.
• Proven experience leading product innovation initiatives and managing end-to-end product development processes.
• Strong knowledge of food formulation, product testing, and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations, quality standards, and nutritional compliance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate insights into innovative product solutions.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing technical teams.
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.