Research & Development Manager

Overview

The Research & Development Manager is responsible for leading the R&D team in developing and enhancing food products. This role involves overseeing the entire product development process, from concept to commercialization, ensuring products meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and market demands. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, product development, and project management.

• Drive the product development process from feasibility through testing, scale-up, and commercialization.
• Serve as the key technical contact for customer engagement and project support.
• Develop consistent experimental design parameters, testing protocols, shelf life, and sensory evaluation procedures across the business unit.
• Establish gold standard product properties and communicate these to internal and external stakeholders.
• Establish supplier relationships to identify new ingredients, technologies, and trends in the food industry.
• Ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and company standards.
• Manage development timelines and resources effectively.

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field; minimum of 5 years of experience in food product development, with 10 years preferred, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of food science, ingredient functionality, and food manufacturing processes.
• Excellent project management skills and ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proven track record of successful product development and launches.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and industry standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to travel up to 40%.

• Master’s degree preferred.