Research Development Head

Job Purpose

The R&D Head shall lead the department in driving innovation and product development. The incumbent shall set strategic goals, manage resources, and ensure that the NPD projects align with business objectives.

Principal Job Responsibilities

• R&D Strategy & Leadership:
• Develop and implement the strategic vision for R&D aligned with business goals and market trends.
• Lead, manage, and mentor the R&D team to drive high performance, innovation, and professional growth.
• Ensure the R&D strategy supports the company's long-term objectives, market competitiveness, and consumer needs.

• Product Development:
• Oversee the entire product development process, from ideation to commercialization, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Lead the innovation process, identifying new product opportunities, researching emerging trends, and analyzing consumer behavior to develop products that align with market demand.
• Conduct feasibility studies, prototype testing, and refine product concepts to meet cost, quality, and sustainability requirements.

• Collaboration & Cross-Functional Teamwork:
• Work closely with marketing, sales, supply chain, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless product launches.
• Coordinate with the quality control and regulatory affairs teams to ensure products meet all safety, regulatory, and quality standards.
• Provide technical support to other departments, such as production and customer service, to address any R&D-related queries or challenges.

• Budget & Resource Management:
• Manage the R&D budget, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure that projects are delivered within financial constraints.
• Evaluate and prioritize R&D projects based on business value, market potential, and cost-effectiveness.

• Innovation & Market Insight:
• Stay updated with the latest scientific, technological, and market trends to ensure continuous innovation and improvement of existing products.
• Establish and maintain a network of external experts, universities, and research organizations to gain insights and collaborate on advanced R&D initiatives.

• Product Testing & Regulatory Compliance:
• Ensure that all new products and processes are subjected to rigorous testing, validation, and consumer trials before launch.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of applicable industry standards and regulations to ensure product compliance.

• Reporting & Communication:
• Report on R&D progress, key achievements, and challenges to senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Present data-driven insights and recommendations to influence product strategy and business decisions.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Expertise in product development, innovation, and research methodologies.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across multiple departments and stakeholders.
• Budgeting and resource allocation experience.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and eco-friendly product development is a plus.

Personal Attributes:

• Visionary and strategic thinker.
• Passionate about product innovation and consumer-centric solutions.
• Highly collaborative with strong interpersonal skills.
• Results-driven with a focus on delivering high-quality products on time.
• Ability to manage and thrive in a fast-paced and constantly evolving market environment.

Educational Qualifications

• A Masters or PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering, or a related field.