Senior Manager - R&D - FMCG

Role Purpose:

Lead the end-to-end product development lifecycle for biscuits innovations in India, translating consumer insights and market trends into commercially viable products. This role requires deep technical expertise, cross-functional leadership, and the ability to drive innovation within a matrixed FMCG environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. R&D Strategy & Innovation Delivery :

- Drive the biscuits and chocolate R&D agenda aligned with MENAI strategic priorities.

- Translate consumer insights, sensory data, and market trends into product concepts and technical solutions.

- Evaluate and integrate disruptive technologies, novel ingredients, and emerging platforms.

2. Product & Process Development :

- Lead development from ideation to commercialization: benchtop prototypes, pilot trials, and factory scale-up.

- Design robust processes including baking parameters, enrobing, tempering, and cooling systems.

- Conduct shelf-life modeling, texture analysis, and sensory validation using digital tools

3. Innovation Pipeline & Co-Creation :

- Co-create and manage the innovation funnel with Marketing, Insights, and Commercial teams.

- Apply agile methodologies to accelerate time-to-market.

- Ensure feasibility of concepts through cost modeling and technical risk assessment.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration :

- Partner with Quality, Manufacturing, Procurement, and Regulatory to ensure seamless product launches.

- Lead cross-functional project teams and ensure alignment across stakeholders.

- Collaborate with packaging teams on barrier specs and sustainability goals.

5. Compliance & Technical Excellence :

- Ensure all products meet regulatory, food safety, and quality standards (HACCP, GMP, PanFIT).

- Maintain accurate specifications, formulations, and process documentation.

- Support audits and technical reviews with global and local compliance teams.

6. Team Leadership & Capability Building :

- Develop a high-performing R&D team, fostering technical excellence and career growth.

- Mentor junior scientists and engineers, promoting a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning.

- Build technical capability through training, benchmarking, and external collaboration.

Qualifications & Experience :

- Minimum 10 years in R&D/product development in biscuits and chocolate within FMCG or food manufacturing.

- Proven track record of launching successful products from concept to shelf.

- Strong understanding of baking science, ingredient functionality, and process engineering.

- Experience in matrix organizations and leading cross-functional teams.

- Degree in Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, or related field (PG/MSc preferred).