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:

Masters 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.

Head of Research And Development