Research And Development Manager

About the role

The R&D Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of key product development activities from benchtop development to line trials. They will help deliver the strategic vision of R&D leadership through the development and implementation of processes and procedures. They will oversee the work of select product development staff, deliver customer expectations, and manage relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize according to business needs.
• Mentor and manage lab technicians and junior food scientists on product development and renovation projects.
• Represent EMPWR R&D in external customer meetings.
• Coordinate R&D product development activities by setting clear objectives, managing resources, and maintaining accountability.
• Implement process improvements within R&D to impact team efficiency and capacity.
• Track delivery to R&D-owned milestones in support of project timelines.
• Model and promote a culture of high performance and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in end-to-end food product development, from initial concept to first production preferably in protein bars, snacks bars or candy technologies.
  • At least 2 years of experience managing people.
  • Proven experience taking products from concept to commercialization.
  • Experience with R&D lab and manufacturing environments.
  • Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication abilities.
  • Ability to balance innovation, quality, timelines, and cost.
  • Solid understanding of food processing, shelf life, and sensory evaluation.
  • Knowledge of MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Preferred:
  • Strong knowledge of bar systems (proteins, binders, fibers, sweeteners, fats, inclusions).
  • Project management and cross‑functional leadership skills.

Competencies

• Responsible and conscientious
• Attention to detail
• Track record of innovation
• Organized and adaptable to changing priorities
• Data-driven decision making
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Bias for action; results-oriented