R&D Manager

Recruiter:

iStaff Recruitment

Job Ref:

CPT000787/CB

Date posted:

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Location:

Midrand, South Africa

SUMMARY:
We are looking for a dynamic, independent, and professional leader to head our R&D Laboratory team. The successful candidate will be a confident problem solver, skilled at delivering on company objectives, and will be groomed for a senior management role within our organisation.

POSITION INFO:

Purpose of the Role

Lead the laboratory strategy and execution of timely flavour and colour product development.
Manage projects, collaborate with technical and management teams, interpret client briefs, and ensure final products align with expectations and deadlines.

Requirements & Skills Needed

Degree in Chemistry, Food Science, or related fields (essential).
Additional management qualification (advantageous).
Proven experience in managing laboratory teams with strong understanding of laboratory practices.
Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills.
Experience in flavour evaluation, olfactive and gustatory profiling (advantageous).
Understanding of the flavour & colour market (advantageous).
Excellent project management and multitasking skills.
Strong communication and presentation abilities with stakeholder influence skills.
Creative vision with ability to transform client briefs into innovative solutions.
Strong problem-solving abilities to resolve technical challenges in flavour and colour development.

Responsibilities:

Develop and implement project strategies for flavour and colour development.
Manage multiple client briefs from concept to execution with timely delivery.
Collaborate with management, flavour technologists, and creative teams to create innovative flavour profiles.
Translate client requirements into clear development guidelines.
Stay informed on market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activity to guide innovation.
Establish and improve laboratory protocols and SOPs to enhance efficiency.
Partner with cross-functional teams including sales, QC, and technical to achieve company goals.
Oversee stability trials, troubleshooting, and evaluation of submissions.
Mentor and develop junior staff to strengthen laboratory capabilities.
Streamline development processes by utilising and updating the flavour & colour library.
Provide monthly progress and resource reports to management.
Manage training, testing, samples, packaging, consumables, and raw material inventory.

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