A leading manufacturer within the FMCG food sector is seeking a highly experienced Senior R&D Technologist with expertise in edible oils and fats to join its management team.
This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned food technology professional to lead innovation, drive product development, mentor technical staff, and contribute strategically to the continued growth of the business. The successful candidate will be a key member of the management team, working closely with Sales & Marketing, Operations, Production, Procurement, and Quality departments.
Applications are particularly encouraged from suitably qualified professionals based in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh who have extensive experience within the edible oils, fats, margarine, shortening, bakery fats, or related FMCG food manufacturing industries.Comprehensive relocation support including visa application assistance, flights, and accommodation support will be provided to the successful candidate.
Purpose of the Role:The Senior R&D Technologist will be responsible for developing and improving food products and manufacturing processes, with a strong focus on edible fats and oils. The role requires a hands-on technical leader who can bridge innovation and commercial objectives while building R&D capability through coaching and mentoring of technical teams.Reporting to the Head of Sales & Marketing, COO, and Site Manager, the role will play a critical part in driving innovation, enhancing product quality, optimizing formulations, and ensuring compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements.
Key ResponsibilitiesInnovation & Product Development:
Lead product innovation projects from concept through to full-scale factory implementation
Develop new products aligned with customer requirements and business strategy
Reformulate existing products to improve quality, nutritional profile, functionality, and cost efficiency
Conduct laboratory, pilot, and factory trials to validate formulations and manufacturing processes
Translate laboratory formulations into commercially viable manufacturing processes
Evaluate emerging technologies, ingredients, and market trends to enhance the product portfolio
Conduct competitor benchmarking and ingredient functionality studies
Technical Leadership & Mentorship:
Provide senior technical leadership within the management team
Mentor, coach, and develop R&D and technical staff
Promote a culture of innovation, food safety, quality, and continuous improvement
Act as the technical expert for edible oils and fats across the business
Facilitate strong inter-departmental collaboration to achieve business objectives
Manufacturing & Process Improvement:
Support production teams in troubleshooting formulation and process challenges
Drive continuous improvement projects aimed at increasing efficiency, sustainability, and product performance
Identify process improvements that enhance productivity and reduce operational costs
Successfully implement new products into manufacturing environments
Customer & Supplier Engagement:
Visit customers and participate in sensory evaluations
Develop products that meet customer specifications and expectations
Engage with new raw material and packaging suppliers
Liaise with suppliers and regulatory bodies regarding ingredient approvals and technical requirements
Provide technical input for customer presentations and commercial projects
Compliance & Documentation:
Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory frameworks including FSSC 22000, HACCP, and Codex standards
Develop and maintain formulations, specifications, SOPs, and technical documentation
Maintain accurate trial records, validation reports, and change-control documentation
Support quality assurance initiatives and regulatory compliance requirements
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
Successful and timely delivery of new and reformulated products to market
Reduction in formulation costs while maintaining product quality
Reduction in process non-conformances
Successful completion of R&D trials and product validations
Ongoing compliance with food safety, regulatory, and quality requirements
Continuous improvement of product performance and manufacturing processes
Requirements:
Degree or Diploma in Food Technology, Food Science or Biotechnology
Extensive experience within FMCG food manufacturing
Significant experience in edible oils and fats product development will be highly advantageous
Proven track record of delivering successful product innovation projects
Strong knowledge of food safety systems, food legislation, regulatory requirements, and market trends
Experience conducting factory trials, product validation, and commercial scale-up projects
Strong analytical and technical problem-solving ability
Experience working within cross-functional teams in a manufacturing environment
Previous experience in a senior technical or leadership role preferred
Desired Skills:
R&D
FMCG
Edibile oils and fats
Innovation
Factory processes
Trials
Food safety
Regulatory requirements
Quality
New product development
Desired Work Experience:
5 to 10 years Food & Beverage Manufacturing
Desired Qualification Level:
Degree