Head of Research & Development (Food Industry)

Job Description:

We are hiring an experienced and innovative Head of Research & Development (Food) to lead product development, formulation, and process improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in food science, product innovation, quality compliance, and commercial-scale food production, with a proven track record in launching successful food products in the Pakistani market.

This role is critical in driving new product development (NPD), improving existing formulations, and ensuring compliance with food safety and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Food R&D department, including product development, trials, and commercialization.
• Develop new food products, recipes, formulations, and flavors aligned with market trends and business strategy.
• Improve existing products through cost optimization, shelf-life enhancement, and quality consistency.
• Conduct pilot trials, scale-up production, and ensure smooth handover to manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, ISO, PSQCA, Punjab Food Authority (PFA), and international food safety standards.
• Collaborate with Production, QA, Marketing, and Supply Chain teams for successful product launches.
• Analyze raw materials, ingredients, and suppliers for quality, performance, and cost efficiency.
• Prepare R&D documentation, SOPs, specifications, and technical reports.
• Monitor global and local food trends, competitor products, and innovation opportunities.
• Manage R&D budgets, timelines, and team performance.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Dairy Technology, or related field.
• 7–12 years of experience in Food R&D, Product Development, or FMCG food manufacturing.
• Strong expertise in NPD, food formulation, process optimization, and commercialization.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, quality systems, and regulatory compliance in Pakistan.
• Experience working with FMCG, dairy, confectionery, bakery, fats & oils, or processed food products.
• Excellent leadership, analytical, and project management skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and lead innovation initiatives.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person