Lead - R&D - Beverage

We have an urgent opening with a leading R&D Lead

Job Title: Lead R&D Beverage Specialist

Department: Research and Development

Location: Manesar

Reports To: VP - R&D

Job Summary:

As a Lead R&D Beverage Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in our organization's Research and Development department. You will be responsible for leading and managing the development of innovative beverage products from concept to commercialization. Your expertise in beverage formulation, ingredient sourcing, and process optimization will be critical in driving our company's growth and maintaining our competitive edge in the market.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Product Development: Lead the creation and development of new beverage products, from ideation to launch, while ensuring they align with market trends and consumer preferences.

2. Formulation: Develop and optimize beverage formulations, ensuring product quality, flavor profiles, and stability, while also considering cost-effectiveness.

3. Ingredient Sourcing: Identify and source high-quality raw materials and ingredients, including flavors, sweeteners, and functional additives, while maintaining supplier relationships.

4. Process Improvement: Continuously improve production processes to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain product consistency.

5. Quality Assurance: Work closely with quality control and assurance teams to ensure product quality and compliance with industry regulations and company standards.

6. Taste Testing and Sensory Evaluation: Organize and conduct taste tests, sensory evaluations, and consumer panels to gather feedback for product refinement.

7. Cost Management: Manage the development budget effectively, striving for cost-efficient formulations without compromising product quality.

8. Project Management: Lead cross-functional teams, including food technologists, engineers, and marketers, to meet project milestones and deadlines.

9. Market Research: Stay up-to-date with industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor products to identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation.

10. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all products adhere to relevant food and beverage regulations and certifications.

11. Documentation: Maintain thorough records of all R&D activities, including formulation adjustments, process changes, and test results.

12. Team Leadership: Mentor and supervise junior R&D staff, providing guidance and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field (advanced degree preferred).

- 7-10 years of experience in beverage product development, including leadership roles.

- Strong knowledge of ingredient functionality, food chemistry, and sensory analysis.

- Familiarity with industry trends, market dynamics, and consumer preferences in the beverage sector.

- Excellent project management and team leadership skills.

- Exceptional problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

- Effective communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.

- Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality standards in the food and beverage industry.