Research & Development(R&D Beverages) Specialist

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).

- 10-15 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.