Scientist conducting experiment in laboratory setting.

Research & Development Manager

Leading innovative efforts to optimize solutions.

As a research and development manager, the primary focus is to provide leadership for the development and execution of a balanced R&D project portfolio of new and innovative technologies, which can include raw materials, ingredients, equipment, packaging and processes. Leveraging internal and external resources, the R&D manager develops programs and manages research and product development projects from concept through to commercialization. Always seeking to iterate and innovate, this position also scouts new technologies to develop and optimize capabilities in processing, technical services and customer solutions. Working closely with marketing, sales and finance allows R&D to not only roll out solutions, but do so in a way that monitors financial results and adjusts priorities and approaches according to the needs of the company and market.

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Career Responsibilities

Lead and manage the R&D team, overseeing talent acquisition, development, performance management, and fostering a collaborative, inclusive environment
Develop and execute the R&D strategy, aligning project portfolios with business objectives and prioritizing resources to deliver innovative new products and processes
Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and formulation to prototyping, testing, scale-up, and commercialization, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery
Manage product and process documentation and costing, maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and company policies
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Sales, Technical Services, Operations) to identify market opportunities, understand customer needs, and ensure successful product launches
Drive consumer testing and market research initiatives to gather insights and validate product concepts
Keep up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitor activities, providing expert guidance and informing strategic decisions
Champion intellectual property (IP) protection, ensuring proper documentation and fostering a culture of awareness regarding confidential information
Promote a culture of safety, ensuring all R&D activities adhere to the highest standards of food safety and human safety
Manage a variety of external partnerships (e.g. parents, consultants, companies &/or technical organizations) to help develop and deliver innovative solutions
Personally demonstrate a commitment to food and human safety

Educational Requirements

Master’s degree in applicable scientific discipline (e.g. Food Science, Cereal Science, Chemical Engineering, etc.)
10+ years of Professional Experience; 5+ years of managerial experience
Able to effectively communicate, manage and influence technical and non-technical employees
Able to establish clear objectives and enforce use of metrics to ensure progress is being made
Experience participating on customer teams to provide technical leadership during customer meetings
Ability to scope, develop, manage and implement technical programs
Demonstrate commercial problem solving and decision-making abilities
Ability to work with diverse groups
Strong interpersonal skills

Possible degrees, training and related fields of study include: