Role Overview for Director of R&D (Nutraceuticals)
JRG Partners is actively seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of R&D (Nutraceuticals) to lead the innovation pipeline for one of our esteemed clients, a rapidly growing and highly innovative leader in the health and wellness sector. This pivotal role is based in the vibrant biotech hub of San Diego, CA, and offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of nutraceutical product development.
The successful candidate will be a strategic leader responsible for overseeing all research and development activities, from initial concept and ingredient selection through formulation, clinical substantiation, and successful commercialization. This is more than just a leadership position; it’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of scientific discovery, translating cutting-edge research into tangible products that genuinely improve consumer health and well-being.
As the Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in defining and executing the company’s scientific strategy, ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of efficacy, safety, and quality. You will guide a talented team of scientists and researchers, fostering a culture of innovation, scientific rigor, and continuous improvement. This role demands a deep understanding of nutritional science, dietary supplement regulations, and market trends, coupled with exceptional leadership and project management skills.
You will collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance, and Operations to bring groundbreaking nutraceuticals to market, solidifying our client’s position as an industry pioneer. If you are passionate about science, driven by innovation, and eager to make a significant impact on global health, we invite you to explore this exceptional career opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director of R&D (Nutraceuticals)
Strategic R&D Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, market needs, and long-term growth aspirations. Identify emerging scientific trends, technologies, and ingredients that can provide a competitive advantage.
New Product Development (NPD)
Lead the entire new product development lifecycle from ideation and concept generation through feasibility assessment, formulation, prototyping, stability testing, and successful commercial launch. Drive a robust pipeline of innovative and scientifically-backed nutraceutical products.
Formulation & Ingredient Expertise
Oversee the development and optimization of complex formulations across various delivery systems (e.g., capsules, powders, liquids, gummies, soft gels). Conduct thorough research on novel ingredients, assess their efficacy, safety, bioavailability, and suitability for various product applications, ensuring sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
Clinical Research & Substantiation
Design, manage, and interpret clinical trials and efficacy studies to scientifically validate product claims. Select and manage Contract Research Organizations (CROs), develop study protocols, monitor progress, and critically analyze data to support product differentiation and marketing initiatives.
Regulatory & Quality Assurance
Ensure strict adherence to all relevant domestic and international regulatory guidelines governing dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, including FDA regulations for dietary supplements (e.g., 21 CFR Part 111 for Good Manufacturing Practices – GMPs), GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) determinations, and claims substantiation. Collaborate closely with regulatory affairs to prepare and submit necessary documentation.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, motivate, and manage a high-performing team of R&D scientists, formulators, and technicians. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and challenging work environment that encourages professional growth and scientific excellence. Conduct performance reviews and provide continuous feedback.
Intellectual Property Management
Work with legal counsel to identify, protect, and manage intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, and trade secrets related to new formulations, processes, and ingredients.
Budget Management
Develop and manage the R&D budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets. Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising scientific integrity or product quality.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key scientific expert and collaborate effectively with other departments, including Marketing (for product positioning and claims), Sales (for technical support), Operations (for scale-up and manufacturing), and Quality Assurance (for specifications and testing protocols).
Scientific & Industry Engagement
Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements, industry trends, competitive landscape, and regulatory changes within the nutraceutical and functional food sectors. Represent the company at scientific conferences, industry events, and professional organizations.
Risk Management
Identify potential scientific, technical, and regulatory risks associated with R&D projects and develop mitigation strategies to ensure project success and compliance.
Requirements for the Director of R&D (Nutraceuticals)
Education
Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences, Food Science, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline is strongly preferred. A Master’s degree with exceptional relevant experience will also be considered.
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in research and development within the nutraceutical, dietary supplement, functional food, or pharmaceutical industries. This must include at least 5-7 years in a leadership or management role, leading R&D teams and managing complex projects from concept to commercialization.
Deep Scientific Expertise
Extensive knowledge of human physiology, metabolism, nutritional biochemistry, and the mechanisms of action of various nutraceutical ingredients (e.g., vitamins, minerals, botanicals, probiotics, amino acids, specialty ingredients).
Formulation Mastery
Proven track record in successful formulation development for a wide range of delivery formats, considering stability, bioavailability, sensory attributes, and manufacturing feasibility.
Regulatory Acumen
Comprehensive understanding of FDA regulations (e.g., DSHEA, cGMPs for dietary supplements), GRAS processes, and other relevant international regulations (e.g., Health Canada, EFSA, TGA) for dietary supplements and functional foods. Experience with claims substantiation and dossier preparation is essential.
Clinical Research Experience
Demonstrated experience in designing, overseeing, and interpreting clinical trials or human efficacy studies for dietary ingredients or finished products.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership, team-building, and mentoring capabilities. Proven ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team of scientific professionals. Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.
Communication Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely to both scientific and non-scientific audiences. Strong presentation and negotiation skills.
Strategic Thinking
Ability to think strategically, identify market opportunities, and translate scientific insights into innovative product concepts that align with business goals.
Problem-Solving
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Collaboration
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client understands that their employees are their greatest asset, and they are committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your professional growth, personal well-being, and financial security. As the Director of R&D (Nutraceuticals), you will be eligible for:
- Highly Competitive Salary and Performance-Based Bonus Structure
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Plans with Employer Contribution
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company-Paid Holidays
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Opportunities for Professional Development, Continuous Learning, and Conference Attendance
- Relocation Assistance (if applicable)
- Dynamic, Collaborative, and Innovative Work Environment
- Employee Wellness Programs and Discounts on Company Products
- The Chance to Make a Significant Impact on Product Innovation and Consumer Health
- A Culture that Values Scientific Excellence, Integrity, and Work-Life Balance
How to Apply
If you are an accomplished R&D leader with a passion for nutraceutical innovation and meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply for this exceptional opportunity. JRG Partners is proud to partner with industry leaders in the Life Sciences sector to connect exceptional talent with unparalleled opportunities.
To express your interest and be considered for the Director of R&D (Nutraceuticals) position, please submit your comprehensive resume/CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Your application will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.
