Director of Research Development - Food Ingredient

Research and Development Director

Industry: Food Ingredients

Location: Illinois

Company Overview: Our client is a leading company in the food ingredient industry, renowned for its innovation, quality, and commitment to excellence. With a robust portfolio of products and a global footprint, they are dedicated to enhancing the nutritional value, taste, and safety of food products worldwide.

Position Summary: Our client are seeking a dynamic and visionary Research and Development Director to lead the R&D team. This role is critical in driving innovation, developing new products, and improving existing ones to meet market demands and customer needs. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, a proven track record of successful product development, and exceptional leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Strategy: Develop and execute the R&D strategy in alignment with the company's overall business objectives. Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of scientists and researchers.
• Innovation: Drive innovation in product development to create cutting-edge food ingredients that meet consumer trends and market demands.
• Project Management: Oversee all R&D projects from conception through to commercialization, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Sales, and Production, to ensure successful product launches and customer satisfaction.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all products comply with relevant food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Market Insight: Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor products, and advancements in food technology to maintain a competitive edge.

Qualifications:

• Education: Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in R&D within the food ingredients industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Skills: Strong project management skills, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a track record of successful product innovations.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead, manage, and develop a high-performing team.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Please apply directly of email me at megan.mason@novarissearch.com to learn more!