Research and Development Product Manager

About the role

The Country Product Development Manager drives the adaptation of regional or global food and beverage concepts to meet local consumer tastes, ingredient availability, regulatory requirements, cost targets and factory capabilities. Reporting to the Senior Manager – Innovation & Product Development, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to move products from concept through testing to commercial launch.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and adapt recipes and formulations for the local market, conducting sensory evaluations, competitor benchmarking and laboratory, pilot and factory trials.
• Plan and manage product trials, work with Manufacturing and Process Engineering to resolve production issues, and prepare technical documentation for commercial launch.
• Ensure compliance with local food regulations and company standards, coordinating with QA and Regulatory on specifications, allergen, nutrition and labeling requirements.
• Provide technical support to Marketing, Sales and Commercial teams, including customer presentations, sample preparation and technical submissions.
• Collaborate with Procurement to qualify local ingredients and packaging, evaluate cost‑saving alternatives and improve yields.
• Monitor post‑launch performance, investigate quality issues and recommend continuous improvements.

Required profile

• Experience in food and beverage product development within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of local regulatory frameworks, quality assurance processes and cost optimization.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, Procurement and Commercial teams.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and willingness to travel 10–20%.

Required skills