Director of R&D (Natural/Organic Ingredients and Colors)(New Jersey) |
|---|
* Category: R&D
* Location: Newark, New Jersey
* Relocation: NO
* Salary Range: Base to $180K plus bonus
Summary
Our client is a natural, organic color and specialty ingredient manufacturer based in the NYC /NJ area. Based on recent demand for their ingredients/colors, they are looking to add a Director of R&D with natural COLOR experience to oversee product development, the lab and the technical team.
Director of R&D is responsible for leading efforts involved in new product / process development and improvements with direct responsibility for some projects. This position initiates, evaluates plans, directs, executes, implements, and reports on activities related to the development of new products, improvements or cost savings ideas. This position carries with it the responsibility to mentor team members and grow their capabilities for contributing to the organization while coordinating and managing the efforts of the R&D team.
Responsibilities
- Initiates, investigates, and implements new formulations, process improvements, and cost savings projects.
- Acts as a go to person for all technical information, to all customers, operating units of the company on formulation / processing issues related to assigned projects.
- Completes technical assessments for evaluation of new product / process opportunities.
- Establishes and monitors the projects pipeline review and prioritization system for the R&D
- Strong Project Management capability and ability to manage multiple projects in analytical and process development areas.
- Facilitating commercialization of prototypes from bench to plant scale up.
- Responsible for implementation of new products in the plant & working with the plant management.
- Interacting with customers with respect to product quality issues or quality improvement initiatives.
- Reviewing and approving formulas, processes and labels used to ensure compliance with all regulatory labeling requirements.
- Assisting in continuous improvement initiatives that reduce manufacturing costs, improve quality and / or enhance customer service.
- Strong business acumen and validate cost/benefit analysis to engage in projects with sales & product line management team.
- Mentoring staff to increase their technical knowledge and potential contribution to the company.
- Good Business acumen and ability to understand the link of product/process and Quality to commercial value in the business.
Requirements
- At least a BS in Food Science, Chemistry or similar sciences preferred. Master’s or PHD Degree is a Plus
- Must have a minimum of 8+ years of Product Development, Applications, and R&D experience (From Concept to Commercialization)
- Must have some experience working with natural and organic colors
- Must have at least 5+ years of R&D managerial experience
- Must have strong knowledge in food chemistry, analytical chemistry associated with ingredients and statistical analysis as used in designing experiments and measuring process capabilities. Color & Flavor testing is critical knowledge to be able to succeed in this role.
- Must have a strong business acumen and demonstrate business knowledge by leading discussion and direction on project work with the organization and determining effects of department work on total financial picture.
- Must have strong written and verbal communication skills and excellent analytical and problem solving skills.
- Must have strong leadership skills and the ability to interact effectively with various functions, customers, and experience in a large team environment.
- Must be proficient with Microsoft Office Suite application and ability to communicate by presentations.
In return, they can offer a competitive base, bonus, excellent benefits and relocation assistance is available. If qualified and interested, please send your resume in confidence to: jobs@foodemployment.com