Research And Development Manager

Our client, a well-established and respected Food & Beverage manufacturer based in central Bristol, is seeking an Research & Development Manager to join the business in a newly created role.

This is a high-impact opportunity to take full ownership of the product development lifecycle while shaping and leading a growing R&D function. You’ll play a pivotal role in turning innovative concepts into scalable, commercially successful products.

As R&D Manager, you will:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a small, capable R&D team
• Establish structure, governance, and best practice across R&D projects
• Drive new products from concept through development, scale-up, and commercial launch
• Identify both BAU and “blue-sky” R&D opportunities aligned to commercial strategy
• Plan, manage, and document development and scale-up trials
• Ensure full traceability and compliant technical documentation
• Maintain ISO, food safety, and GMP standards within R&D operations
• Oversee R&D facilities and equipment, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance
• Transfer technologies from pilot trials into full-scale production
• Prepare and present technical and project updates to senior leadership
• Collaborate closely with Commercial, NPD, and Technical teams to deliver projects on time and within budget

• Significant and demonstrable experience within R&D (Food, Flavour, Chemicals, or another regulated manufacturing environment)
• Degree-qualified in a relevant scientific or technical discipline
• Proven experience managing or mentoring technical teams
• Strong track record in product development, scale-up, and commercialisation