Manager- New Product Development (Food) International Business

We are hiring a Senior Manager/Manager New Product Development for our International Business at Vadilal Industries Ltd., based at our Corporate Office in Ahmedabad.

Job Description:

Position: Senior Manager/Manager- New Product Development

Department: International Business

Location: Ahmedabad- Corporate Office

Bond: 3 Years

Job Summary:

The person for New Product Development (NPD) in the Food/Dairy processing sector, specializing in Food/Dairy technology, will play a role in driving innovation, product design, and NPD lifecycle for dairy & Food based products. This role also requires substantial experience in managing third-party operations, vendor development, and supplier relationships to ensure that product development and production align with operational standards, cost targets, and quality control requirements.

Role & Responsibilities

• Manage New Product Development (NPD), Procurement, Vendor Development, and Contract Management for International Business projects.
• Align procurement and NPD strategies with market priorities, ensuring cost control and quality compliance.
• Develop and implement strategic procurement processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Identify and sustain niche product categories with key differentiators for international markets.
• Lead techno-commercial negotiations with vendors to optimize sourcing in terms of cost, quality, and service.
• Monitor performance metrics, drive cost efficiencies, and explore innovative cost-reduction strategies.
• Conduct third-party facility assessments, provide technical support, and oversee operations, including ordering and inventory control.
• Ensure timely order fulfillment by coordinating supplier operations and backward integration.
• Identify, source, and manage R&D for ingredients to enhance formulations and develop new products.
• Scale up manufacturing operations to support business growth.
• Oversee product development, including formulation, pilot trials, sensory evaluation, and R&D documentation.
• Manage demand forecasting, yield analysis, and cost review for international business.
• Improve the bottom line through mechanization, procurement efficiency, and operational streamlining.
• Conduct and support value-added audits for third-party manufacturers, ensuring compliance and corrective actions.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with export country requirements.
• Support third-party operations and QA in resolving issues related to ingredients, formulations, labeling, and processes.
• Manage product specifications, technical documentation, and regulatory audits.
• Optimize formulations, develop alternative vendors, and address bottlenecks for efficient sourcing.
• Ensure commercial agreements with third-party manufacturers are in place and adhered to.

Qualifications

• B.Tech/M.Tech in Food or Dairy Technology with 15+ years of experience in product/process development.

Desired Skills & Expertise

• Expertise in ingredient research, product formulation, specifications, and commercialization.
• Strong techno-commercial acumen to optimize procurement and operational spending.
• Deep understanding of food & dairy processing technology and emerging industry trends.
• Regulatory expertise in food safety laws, HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000 compliance.
• Experience with external/third-party audits, testing, inspection, and certification requirements.
• Strong networking and analytical skills and a team-oriented approach.

Candidates with a B.Tech/M.Tech in Food or Dairy Technology and relevant experience should apply at vqthr@vadilalgroup.com.