Job Summary:
We are seeking a visionary and strategic Innovation Director tolead our innovation efforts, drive new product development, and ensure the continuous improvement of existing products and technologies. This leadership role requires a strong mix of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and people management skills to translate market needs and business goals into high-impact R&D initiatives.
Major Duties, Responsibilities & Accountabilities :
Strategic Leadership:
- Define and drive the R&D vision, strategy, and roadmap in alignment with overall company goals.
- Identify emerging trends, technologies, and opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Collaborate with leadership team to align R&D priorities with business strategy.
- Instill safety culture and encourage safety activities.
Product Development & Innovation:
- Oversee the development of new products, processes, or services from concept through commercialization.
- Lead cross-functional project teams, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.
- Manage the R&D project portfolio, balancing short-term deliverables with long-term innovation.
- Strategize Product Ideation/ Roadshow for customers, both McDonald's and Strategic Key Account Customers
- Initiate cost saving projects and alternative ingredients
Team Leadership & Development:
- Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing R&D and culinary team
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Implement best practices in project management, research methodologies, and product development processes.
Technical & Operational Oversight:
- Oversee experimental design, lab and pilot testing, prototyping, and validation efforts.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and industry best practices.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, FSQA, commercial and marketing teams to ensure successful product launch and lifecycle management.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Serve as the primary liaison between R&D and other departments (e.g., commercial, marketing, operations, FSQA).
- Represent the company in technical conferences, customer meetings, and external collaborations.
- Build partnerships with universities, research institutions, and technology providers as needed.
Qualifications/Experience
- Minimum Degree in Food Science/ Food Technology/ Culinology
- Minimum 15 years working experience preferably in manufacturing environment with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills required. Strong verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong understanding of innovation process to commercialization.
- Progressive experiences that demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge necessary to perform responsibilities as defined.
- Facilitation and strategic influencing skill
- Ability to plan, manage and control resources
