R＆D Assistant Manager
Job Description
Position: R&D Assistant Manager / Senior Executive
Department: Research & Development
Reporting To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Direct Reports:
- R&D Officer
- R&D Assistant / Intern
Job Purpose
To lead and manage the company’s Research & Development (R&D) initiatives in developing new snack products, improving existing formulations, and supporting business growth through innovation and cost optimization.
This role requires strong expertise in food science, understanding of manufacturing processes, and awareness of market trends to ensure products are technically feasible, commercially viable, and aligned with company strategy.
The position collaborates closely with Production, Purchasing, QA, and Sales & Marketing teams to ensure successful product commercialization and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
1. Product Development & Innovation
- Lead the development and enhancement of products, including:
- Preserved fruits
- Nuts and flavored nuts
- Snack repacking products
- Review development requests with stakeholders to assess feasibility
- Plan and execute product trials and experimental designs
- Develop formulations considering:
- Product quality
- Ingredient availability
- Cost efficiency
- Halal compliance
- Regulatory requirements
- Conduct sensory evaluations and refine formulations accordingly
2. Manufacturing & Process Feasibility
- Ensure formulations are suitable for manufacturing processes
- Collaborate with Production/Packing teams during trials and initial production runs
- Identify potential production challenges and recommend solutions
- Ensure consistency and scalability for mass production
3. Market & Business Awareness
- Develop products aligned with market trends, consumer preferences, and company strategy
- Evaluate commercial viability including cost, pricing, and demand
- Identify opportunities for new product categories and innovations
4. Purchasing & Supplier Collaboration
- Work with Purchasing to source new ingredients and materials
- Evaluate supplier inputs for quality and suitability
- Support sourcing of alternative ingredients or suppliers
- Adjust formulations when raw material specifications change
5. Product Commercialization
- Manage New Product Development (NPD) projects from concept to launch
- Ensure adherence to timelines and internal procedures
- Coordinate production trials with relevant departments
- Approve final product formulations prior to production release
6. Documentation & Regulatory Compliance
- Maintain and control product documentation, including:
- Formulations and recipes
- Development reports
- Product specifications
- Ensure compliance with:
- Malaysian and export market regulations
- Halal requirements
- Internal food safety standards
7. Packaging & Label Compliance
- Review packaging artwork to ensure compliance with labelling regulations, including:
- Ingredient declarations
- Nutritional information
- Product claims
- Provide regulatory guidance to R&D team members
8. Meetings & Reporting
- Lead monthly NPD meetings
- Present updates in HOD meetings
- Prepare reports on:
- Project progress
- Development status
- KPIs
9. Team Leadership & Supervision
- Supervise and guide R&D team in daily operations
- Assign tasks and monitor progress
- Conduct regular discussions to resolve challenges and set priorities
- Perform performance evaluations and provide coaching
10. R&D Process Improvement
- Review and enhance R&D procedures and documentation
- Improve tracking systems, workflows, and development processes
Job Requirements
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, Nutrition Science, or related field
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of experience in food manufacturing or product development
- Experience in snacks, dried fruits, nuts, or beverage premix is preferred
- Hands-on experience managing product development and factory trials
Key Competencies
Technical
- Food formulation and product development
- Sensory evaluation and shelf-life testing
- Food labelling and regulatory compliance
- Understanding of manufacturing processes
Business & Commercial
- Market trend awareness
- Cost and feasibility analysis
- Supplier and ingredient collaboration
Leadership
- Team supervision and development
- Cross-functional coordination
- Decision-making and problem-solving
Personal Attributes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Practical and hands-on approach
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- High attention to detail and accountability
Kindly contact Ms Rachel at +6019-772 2619 for further details or send your resume to [rachel.gan@cityrecruit.com.my]
or
Kindly contact Ms Veena +6012 598 5453 for further details or send your resume to [crcs-my-recruitment1@cityrecruit.com.my]
