R&D Manager

PRINCIPAL FUNCTION

This role is to assist the Head of R&D on management of R&D Project and daily operations. Involve in development and innovation of products for the group to stay ahead of competitors by ensuring the strictest compliance to food safety and quality standards. Evaluates current and alternative food ingredients, create product recipe, improve processes and conduct sensory evaluation of new food products to meet customer needs and requirements. Participates on cross functional teams to ensure effective resolution of technical issues and support product innovation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To innovate and commercialize a portfolio of projects under Kawan Food and multiple product technologies in accordance with business targets and processes.

To maintain/enhance existing products on a global basis and put forward new quality assurance initiatives

To drive process improvements in all aspects of operation related to R&D to heighten efficiency, process and finished product quality.

Responsible for ingredient sourcing/evaluation, conducting plant trials, initial production runs, internal sensory evaluation of products and final product implementation.

To assist for ongoing maintenance of recipes/formulations, methodologies and specifications.

Support the superior to build an effective R&D team with a diversified structure to constantly innovate new and / or existing products and process technology.

To keep abreast of emerging markets trends and technology advancement, selection of new ingredients and product design.

To maintain/work closely with key suppliers, developing business relationships where appropriate.

To improve and evaluate product ingredients, processes, systems to ensure that they are applicable and competitive.

To drive alternative raw material initiatives to ensure continuous supply.

Provide information to assist Head of R&D in present the technical concern / concept to management team.

Lead team to develop and implement new product development (NPD) procedures and guidelines from product concept stage until product is successfully commercialized, as well as, to study production feasibility and validate the concept feasibility before commercialization.

To coordinate factory manufacturing trials prior to commercialization run.

To carry out other duties and tasks as directed by the Management in line with competencies and activities associated with any of the above processes.



JOB REQUIREMENTS

Candidate must possess at least a degree or higher, preferably in Food Science / Technology, Culinary Arts and related courses.

Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar role is required.

Excellent communication (oral and written), public speaking skills, and able to maintain positive relationships with internal or external parties.

Must have resilience and strong influencing skills. Strategic thinking in making crucial decisions in high-pressure situations, choosing the next course of action through critical thinking and holistic analysis.

Ability to work independently and flexible with good attitude.

Excellent project management skills to oversee multiple projects that are large in scope.

Creative and innovative.