Job Description
Our Client:
A rapidly accelerating consumer goods organization, with a keen focus on innovation. Based in Riyadh, this role offers the opportunity to drive the innovation strategy for a well-recognized brand, contributing to growth and competitive edge in a dynamic market.
Your Role:
As the Head of Research and Development (R&D) in Riyadh, you will lead the company’s innovation strategy and manage a high-impact new product development pipeline . This strategic role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience across multiple markets. You will drive the full R&D lifecycle, from ideation through to commercialization, ensuring alignment with consumer needs and industry trends. In collaboration with cross-functional teams, you’ll guide product innovation, streamline R&D processes, and lead improvements that enhance product quality and efficiency. Your expertise in the food industry will empower you to deliver impactful solutions that align with business goals and bolster the company’s market position.
Key Responsibilities:
- Innovation Strategy Development
- Develop and implement R&D innovation strategies that align with business growth goals in the food sector.
- Monitor market trends, consumer insights, and emerging technologies to identify new product opportunities.
- New Product & Service Development
- Oversee the entire new product development (NPD) lifecycle, from concept to launch.
- Lead product line renovations to ensure relevance and market competitiveness.
- Process Improvement
- Drive internal process improvements, focusing on efficiency and quality in product development.
- Foster cross-functional collaboration to maintain high standards in innovation activities.
- Cross-functional Leadership & Collaboration
- Partner with Operations, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Supply Chain teams for seamless project execution.
- Support expansion into new and established markets across multiple product categories.
- R&D Accountability & Stage-Gate Process
- Lead R&D project timelines and adherence to the stage-gate process.
- Resolve issues related to Operations, Quality, and Regulatory teams, managing timelines effectively.
- Market Research & Trend Analysis
- Conduct comprehensive market research and trend analysis to identify growth opportunities.
- Develop forward-thinking product proposals that support sustainable growth.
- Team Leadership & Development
- Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing R&D team, fostering a collaborative and innovative culture.
- Budget & Performance Management
- Manage the R&D budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost-effective innovation.
- Monitor KPIs to assess project success and drive data-driven decisions.
- Risk Management
- Identify and mitigate risks in the innovation process, ensuring timely and successful project execution.
Must Have:
- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Engineering, Food Science, or a related field.
- Experience: Extensive R&D or innovation experience in the food / nutrition/ pharma industry, with a proven track record of launching impactful products.
- Skills:
- In-depth understanding of food production processes, product innovation, and the stage-gate process.
- Strong leadership and team development skills, managing cross-functional teams across diverse geographies.
- Excellent project management abilities, with an end-to-end approach from concept to commercialization.
- Financial acumen for budgeting R&D and innovation initiatives.
Managing expectations: “At Mindfield, we strive for exceptional results, and we achieve this by understanding the needs of both our clients and candidates. We ask that you take note of our “must-haves” to ensure a successful application process. We look forward to building a long-term relationship with you. Mindfield – making a difference.”