Role Overview for Head of Nutrition Science with a Food & Beverage Manufacturer–Charlotte ,NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the food and beverage industry to recruit a visionary and strategic Head of Nutrition Science. Based in their corporate headquarters in vibrant Charlotte, NC, this executive-level position offers a unique opportunity to shape the nutritional landscape of products enjoyed by millions of consumers daily. The successful candidate will serve as the company’s foremost authority on nutrition, health, and wellness, driving the scientific strategy that underpins product innovation, brand integrity, and long-term corporate growth.
As the Head of Nutrition Science, you will be the internal and external champion for evidence-based nutritional principles. You will lead a dedicated team of scientists and dietitians, fostering a culture of scientific rigor, curiosity, and innovation. Your leadership will directly influence the entire product lifecycle, from initial concept and formulation in R&D to marketing claims and consumer communication. This role is critical for navigating the complex and evolving global landscape of nutritional science, public health priorities, and regulatory requirements. You will be responsible for ensuring our client’s portfolio not only meets but exceeds consumer expectations for taste, quality, and healthfulness. This is more than a job; it is a chance to make a tangible impact on public health, steer the strategic direction of a major industry player, and solidify its reputation as a company committed to nourishing its consumers.
We are seeking a thought leader with a deep understanding of nutritional biochemistry, clinical research, and food science, combined with exceptional business acumen and communication skills. You will collaborate extensively with cross-functional leaders in Marketing, Research & Development, Regulatory Affairs, Legal, and Corporate Communications to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable business strategies and compelling consumer-facing messages. Your expertise will be pivotal in identifying emerging nutritional trends, mitigating risks, and capitalizing on opportunities to enhance the nutritional profile of the company’s product portfolio. If you are a passionate and influential leader ready to take on the challenge of defining the future of nutrition for a beloved brand, we invite you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Nutrition Science with a Food & Beverage Manufacturer–Charlotte ,NC
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term nutrition science strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, brand promise, and commitment to consumer wellness. Establish the company as a credible, science-led authority in the food and beverage space.
Research & Innovation
Direct internal and external research programs to substantiate product benefits, explore new ingredients, and stay at the forefront of emerging nutritional science. Monitor, interpret, and disseminate the latest scientific literature and trends to inform business strategy and innovation pipelines.
Product Development Collaboration
Serve as the primary nutrition science partner to the Research & Development and Innovation teams. Provide expert guidance on product formulation, ingredient selection, and processing to achieve specific nutritional targets and health outcomes without compromising taste or quality.
Regulatory & Compliance Mastery
Provide strategic oversight for all nutrition-related regulatory matters. Ensure all products, packaging, and communications are in full compliance with local and global regulations, including FDA nutrition labeling regulations, FTC guidelines, and international standards. Proactively anticipate and plan for future regulatory changes.
Scientific & Health Communications
Oversee the development of all nutrition-related communications, ensuring scientific accuracy, transparency, and consumer understanding. Approve nutrition-based marketing claims, website content, and public relations materials. Serve as the primary media spokesperson on nutrition and health topics.
External Engagement & Thought Leadership
Build and maintain a strong network of relationships with key opinion leaders (KOLs), academic institutions, government agencies, and professional health organizations (e.g., Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Heart Association). Represent the company at scientific conferences and industry forums to enhance its scientific reputation.
Team Development & Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of nutrition scientists, dietitians, and researchers. Foster a collaborative and innovative environment that encourages professional growth and scientific excellence. Manage departmental budget and resources effectively.
Cross-Functional Partnership
Act as the central point of contact for nutrition science expertise across the organization. Work seamlessly with Marketing to translate science into compelling brand stories, with Legal to mitigate risk, and with Corporate Affairs to shape public policy and stakeholder engagement strategies.
Requirements for the Head of Nutrition Science with a Food & Beverage Manufacturer–Charlotte ,NC
Educational Background
A Ph.D. in Nutrition Science, Nutritional Biochemistry, Public Health Nutrition, or a closely related scientific field is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in nutrition science within the consumer-packaged goods (CPG), food, beverage, or ingredient industry. At least 7 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, with proven success in managing teams and influencing corporate strategy.
Technical Expertise
Deep, comprehensive knowledge of macronutrients, micronutrients, human metabolism, and diet-related health conditions. Demonstrated experience in designing, executing, and interpreting clinical and pre-clinical research. Strong understanding of food science, food processing, and their impact on nutritional outcomes.
Regulatory Acumen
Extensive experience navigating the U.S. and international food regulatory environments, with specific expertise in nutrition labeling, health claims, and advertising law.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership qualities with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team of scientific professionals. Proven ability to think strategically, manage complex projects, and make data-driven decisions.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
World-class written and verbal communication skills. The ability to distill complex scientific information into clear, concise, and persuasive messages for a wide range of audiences, from C-suite executives to consumers. Strong public speaking and presentation skills are essential.
Business Acumen
A strong understanding of business principles and the ability to connect scientific strategy with commercial objectives. Experience in budget management and strategic planning is required.
Credentials
Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential is highly preferred. A track record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at major scientific conferences is a significant plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package for this executive role, designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future. The package includes:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive/equity plan.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents. Access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A significant amount of paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and company holidays, to promote work-life balance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth with support for attending conferences, continuing education, and leadership development programs.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates to ensure a smooth transition to the Charlotte area.
Additional Perks
Employee product discounts, parental leave, life and disability insurance, and various other perks designed to enhance your employee experience.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative leader in nutrition science with the experience and passion to drive the health and wellness agenda for a major food and beverage company, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and strategic vision. JRG Partners is a team of dedicated recruiters and experts in GLP-1 & Better-for-You Food Innovation executive search. We are committed to connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading organizations and look forward to reviewing your application. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion and confidentiality.
