Position: R&D Manager
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the planning, development, testing, and launching of new beverage products from concept to commercialization.
- Collaborate with marketing and production teams to ensure products meet market demands and business objectives.
- Continuously improve and innovate existing beverage products, enhancing flavor profiles, formulation, packaging, and shelf-life based on consumer feedback and market trends.
- Stay updated on global beverage trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies to ensure our product offerings are competitive and aligned with market needs.
- Oversee the development of new formulations, ensuring they meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and taste expectations.
- Manage lab testing, pilot runs, and scale-up activities.
- Work closely with marketing, quality assurance, procurement, and production teams to ensure alignment throughout the product lifecycle.
- Support the transfer of successful formulas from R&D to manufacturing.
- Lead and mentor a team of R&D professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Provide guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
- Develop detailed project timelines, resource plans, and budgets.
- Track project progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure timely and cost-effective product launches.
- Ensure all products comply with food safety standards, health regulations, and environmental guidelines.
- Focus on cost-effective solutions in product development without compromising on quality, sustainability, or consumer appeal.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.
- At least 5 years of experience in beverage R&D, product formulation, and/or food technology.
- Experience in managing product development processes from ideation to launch.
- Proven experience in leading and managing a team of R&D professionals in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Strong understanding of beverage science, ingredients, and formulation processes.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-moving, deadline-driven environment.
- Creativity and innovation in developing new products that align with market trends and consumer preferences.
- Knowledge of regulatory standards, quality assurance, and safety guidelines in the beverage industry.
- In-depth knowledge of hygiene, food safety practices, and protocols for beverage production.
- Familiarity with Halal certification processes and requirements for beverage products.