Aachi Group - Head - Research & Development/Innovation - Spices/Masala/FMCG

Job Title : Head - Research & Development

Department : Research & Development

Location : Scientific Food Testing Services Pvt Ltd, Ayanambakkam.

Grade : General Manager / Head

Job Purpose

To lead the Research & Development function by driving innovation, product development, product renovation and commercialization across Aachi's product portfolio including Masalas, Spice Blends, Ready-to-Cook, Ready-to-Eat, Pickles, Instant Mixes and other value-added food categories. The role is responsible for delivering consumer-centric, high-quality, safe and cost-effective products while ensuring regulatory compliance and manufacturing excellence.

Key Responsibilities

- Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the annual R&D roadmap aligned with business objectives.

- New Product Development (NPD): Lead end-to-end product development from concept to commercial launch across various food categories.

- Product Renovation & Continuous Improvement: Improve existing products for taste, shelf life, texture, nutrition, and cost optimization.

- Commercialization: Translate laboratory formulations into scalable manufacturing processes.

- Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with FSSAI, HACCP, ISO 22000 and Export Regulations.

- Process & Technology Development: Drive process improvements to enhance productivity and product consistency.

- Cross Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with Marketing, Procurement, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Regulatory Affairs.

- Vendor & Ingredient Development: Identify and qualify new raw material suppliers.

- Team Management: Lead and mentor the R&D team.