JRG Partners is delighted to partner with a pioneering client in the plant-based food industry, seeking a visionary and dynamic Director of Research & Development. This pivotal role is for a leader passionate about transforming the future of food through innovative, sustainable, and delicious plant-based products. If you are an experienced R&D professional with a proven track record in the plant-based sector and a desire to lead a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Role Overview for Director of R&D (Plant-Based)
As the Director of R&D (Plant-Based), you will be at the forefront of innovation, leading all aspects of product research, development, and commercialization for our client’s rapidly expanding portfolio of plant-based foods. This role requires a strategic thinker with deep scientific expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for creating delicious, nutritious, and sustainable alternatives to traditional animal products.
You will inspire and guide a talented team of food scientists, chemists, and culinary experts, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Your work will directly impact consumer choices, environmental sustainability, and the company’s growth trajectory in a highly competitive and evolving market. This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of food and make a tangible difference in the world.
Reporting directly to the VP of Product Development, you will be instrumental in defining the R&D strategy, managing multiple projects from concept to launch, and ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, taste, and nutritional value.
You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless product development and successful market entry. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of scientific rigor, business acumen, and an unwavering commitment to innovation within the plant-based sector. This role is based in Chicago, IL, a vibrant hub for food innovation, offering a stimulating environment for professional growth and impact.
Key Responsibilities of Director of R&D (Plant-Based)
- Strategic R&D Leadership: Develop and execute the long-term R&D strategy for plant-based products, aligning with overall business objectives, market trends, and consumer demands. Identify emerging technologies, ingredients, and processes to maintain a competitive edge.
- Product Innovation & Development: Lead the full product development lifecycle from ideation and concept generation through prototyping, formulation, pilot production, and commercialization. Drive the creation of novel plant-based meat, dairy, and seafood alternatives, as well as other innovative food products.
- Team Management & Development: Recruit, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of food scientists, R&D chefs, and technicians. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented work environment. Provide clear objectives, regular feedback, and professional development opportunities.
- Ingredient & Process Expertise: Deep dive into the functionality of plant-based ingredients (e.g., proteins, starches, fibers, fats) and their interactions. Optimize processing techniques to enhance texture, flavor, stability, and nutritional profile of products.
- Sensory & Quality Assurance: Implement robust sensory evaluation programs to ensure superior taste, texture, and overall consumer experience. Work closely with Quality Assurance to establish and maintain stringent quality standards and food safety protocols.
- Regulatory Compliance & IP: Ensure all products and processes comply with relevant food safety regulations (FDA, USDA, etc.) and labeling requirements. Protect intellectual property through patent applications and trade secret management.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with Marketing to understand consumer insights and translate them into product concepts. Collaborate with Sales to support product launches and market penetration. Work with Operations and Supply Chain to ensure scalability, cost-effectiveness, and efficient production.
- Budget Management: Develop and manage the R&D budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets.
- External Partnerships: Identify and manage relationships with external partners, universities, research institutions, and ingredient suppliers to leverage expertise and accelerate innovation.
- Sustainability Focus: Champion sustainable practices in ingredient sourcing, product development, and manufacturing processes, aligning with the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Requirements for the Director of R&D (Plant-Based)
- Education: Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, or a closely related scientific field.
- Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in Research & Development within the food industry, with at least 5-7 years specifically focused on plant-based food product development.
- Leadership: Proven track record of successfully leading and managing R&D teams, including direct reports and cross-functional project teams. Experience mentoring and developing scientific talent.
- Technical Expertise:
- Extensive knowledge of plant-based protein functionality, emulsification, extrusion, fermentation, and other relevant food processing technologies.
- Deep understanding of ingredient interactions, flavor chemistry, and texture science in plant-based applications.
- Proficiency in experimental design (DOE), statistical analysis, and data interpretation.
- Experience with product scale-up from benchtop to pilot plant to commercial production.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA) and labeling requirements for plant-based products.
- Innovation & Creativity: Demonstrated ability to drive innovation, generate novel ideas, and bring successful new products to market. A passion for plant-based innovation and sustainable food systems is essential.
- Project Management: Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
- Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of presenting complex technical information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including senior leadership, technical teams, and external partners.
- Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to build effective relationships across all levels of the organization.
- Business Acumen: Understanding of market trends, consumer insights, and financial implications of R&D decisions.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, professional growth, and financial security. As a Director of R&D (Plant-Based), you can expect:
- Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus structure.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and company holidays.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
- Life insurance and disability coverage.
- Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and industry conference attendance.
- Employee wellness programs and initiatives.
- Product discounts on our client’s innovative plant-based products.
- A vibrant, inclusive, and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized.
- The chance to make a significant impact on the future of food and contribute to a more sustainable planet.
- Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates.
How to Apply
Are you ready to lead the charge in plant-based innovation and shape the future of food? JRG Partners is exclusively managing this search for our esteemed client. We invite qualified candidates to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and passion for the plant-based industry.
To apply for this exciting Director of R&D (Plant-Based) opportunity, please visit our dedicated Food & Beverage practice area page and submit your application through our secure portal. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.
