R&D Manager

JOB SUMMARY

The Commercial R&D Manager is responsible for leading the research and development activities for beverage, dairy, and food products, ensuring innovation, competitiveness, and alignment with the company's business objectives. This role oversees market research, product development, contract manufacturing, continuous improvement initiatives, and collaboration with external partners and co-manufacturers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. R&D Strategy

• Develop and implement R&D strategies for beverage, dairy, and food product categories in alignment with business objectives.
• Analyze market trends, consumer insights, and innovation opportunities to support new product development.
• Ensure R&D initiatives meet customer expectations, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.

2. Product & Technology Development

• Lead product ideation, formulation development, packaging improvement, and technology innovation.
• Oversee product trials, sample evaluations, and product validation with internal stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain product documentation, including manufacturing processes, Bills of Materials (BOM), technical specifications, and quality standards.

3. Contract Manufacturing Management

• Develop and maintain relationships with contract manufacturers to ensure product quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery.
• Coordinate with co-manufacturers on new product development and technology transfer.
• Monitor outsourced manufacturing performance to ensure compliance with technical, quality, and regulatory requirements.

4. Continuous Improvement

• Collect and analyze customer feedback to improve product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to optimize raw materials, ingredients, and packaging for better performance and cost effectiveness.
• Monitor emerging technologies and industry innovations for potential implementation.

5. Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop the R&D team to strengthen technical capabilities and performance.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate cross-functional projects with Marketing, Supply Chain, Procurement, Quality, Manufacturing, and Sales.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor's degree or above in Food Science, Food Technology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Overseas education and international working experience are preferred.
• Professional certifications such as HACCP, Six Sigma, or related qualifications are preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 8 years of experience in Research & Development, Product Development, or Innovation within the beverage, dairy, or food industry.
• At least 3 years of experience in a managerial or team leadership position.
• Experience working with contract manufacturers (OEM/ODM) or international manufacturing partners is highly preferred.
• Proven experience in new product development from concept to commercialization.

Essential Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Strong project management and cross-functional coordination capabilities.
• Solid knowledge of product development, food manufacturing processes, and quality systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic business environment.
• Commercial mindset with strong customer and market orientation.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary package.
• 13th-month salary and performance bonus.
• Comprehensive healthcare insurance.
• Lunch and phone allowance.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Employee engagement activities.
• Long-term incentives and ESOP opportunities.

Work Location: 63 Cao Thang Str, Ban Co Ward, HCMC.