Head of Research And Development

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end R&D strategy including product innovation, formulation, packaging, and sensory evaluation.
• Identify market trends and consumer insights to conceptualize and develop new food and beverage products.
• Oversee pilot plant trials, shelf-life studies, and scale-up from lab to production.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, labeling, and regulatory standards (FSSAI, ISO, HACCP, etc.).
• Collaborate closely with marketing, supply chain, and manufacturing teams for seamless product commercialization.
• Manage a team of food technologists, scientists, and lab staff; ensure ongoing skill development and technical excellence.
• Drive continuous improvement in product quality, cost optimization, and sustainability.
• Partner with suppliers, research institutions, and innovation labs for advanced ingredient and technology sourcing.
• Track emerging technologies and global trends to maintain a competitive innovation pipeline.
• Own the R&D budget and ensure efficient resource utilization.

Key Requirements:

• Master's or Ph.D. in Food Technology, Food Science, Dairy Technology, or related field.
• 15+ years of experience in R&D or product development within leading F&B/FMCG companies.
• Proven track record of successful product launches and innovation leadership.
• Strong understanding of food ingredients, sensory science, processing technologies, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and project management skills.
• Strategic thinker with a balance of innovation and commercial acumen.

Preferred Background:

• Experience across multiple F&B categories (snacks, beverages, dairy, bakery, ready-to-eat, etc.).
• Exposure to both domestic and international markets.
• Hands-on experience with clean-label, nutrition-focused, or sustainable product lines.