Director, Beverage R&D

My client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Beverage Research & Development (R&D) to lead the innovation, development, and optimization of new and existing beverage products. This key leadership role will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of R&D, from ideation and concept development to product commercialization, ensuring that the company stays ahead of industry trends and delivers cutting-edge, high-quality beverages to the market.Key Responsibilities :Lead the beverage R&D team in the creation and development of new products, from concept through to commercialization, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic objectives and market trends.Drive innovation by identifying and researching emerging beverage trends, ingredients, and technologies, ensuring the company's product offerings remain competitive and innovative.Oversee formulation, sensory evaluation, and optimization of beverage recipes, ensuring consistency, quality, and scalability in production.Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Supply Chain, Operations, and Quality Assurance to ensure that products meet market demands and regulatory requirements.Manage the R&D budget, resources, and timelines effectively to meet key milestones and launch deadlines.Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, ingredient manufacturers, and other industry partners to stay ahead of emerging trends and secure innovative ingredients.Conduct extensive consumer testing and market research to validate product concepts, ensuring products meet consumer preferences and expectations.Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, quality standards, and sustainability initiatives across all product lines.Mentor and manage a high-performing R&D team, providing direction, feedback, and development opportunities to foster professional growth and innovation within the department.Champion a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the R&D team and broader organization.Qualifications :Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field (Master's or PhD preferred).8+ years of experience in beverage R&D, product development, or related roles, with at least 5 years in a leadership position.Proven experience in developing and launching successful beverage products across various categories (e.g., non-alcoholic, alcoholic, functional beverages, etc.).Strong knowledge of formulation, sensory evaluation, and manufacturing processes.In-depth understanding of industry trends, regulatory requirements, and consumer preferences in the beverage sector.Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience in building and leading high-performing teams.Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively collaborate across departments and with external partners.Passion for innovation and a deep understanding of the beverage industry landscape.

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