R&D Manager – CPG Industry – Orlando, FL

Are you an innovative leader with a passion for product development and a strong background in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry? We are seeking an R&D Manager to join a fast-growing CPG company in Orlando, FL. This is an exciting opportunity to drive innovation, lead research and development initiatives, and enhance product portfolios to meet evolving consumer demands. If you excel in managing cross-functional teams, optimizing product formulation, and bringing new ideas to life, this role is for you.

Lead Innovation in the CPG Industry – Orlando, FL

A leading Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) company in Orlando, FL is looking for a forward-thinking R&D Manager to spearhead their product innovation and development strategy. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of CPG trends, strong technical expertise, and experience in developing products from concept to commercialization. If you have a passion for scientific research, product formulation, and driving business growth through innovation, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities of the R&D Manager – Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG):

Product Innovation & Development:

Lead end-to-end research and development projects, transforming initial concepts into fully realized consumer products.
Develop and enhance new product formulations, ensuring they align with emerging consumer trends, regulatory requirements, and overall company objectives.
Identify opportunities for product line extensions, improvements in existing product formulations, and new product categories to expand market presence.
Work closely with ingredient suppliers and external research organizations to source innovative raw materials and leverage cutting-edge technology in product development.

Market & Consumer Insights:

Conduct in-depth market research and competitive analysis to identify gaps, opportunities, and trends within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry.
Analyze consumer behavior, preferences, and purchasing patterns to ensure new products meet evolving customer demands.
Collaborate with the marketing team to align R&D efforts with the company’s brand strategy, positioning, and go-to-market plans.
Work with sales and marketing teams to develop consumer testing strategies, gather feedback, and adjust formulations accordingly.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Partner with manufacturing, procurement, sales, and quality assurance teams to ensure a seamless transition from product development to commercialization.
Work closely with operations and supply chain teams to ensure raw material availability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness of new formulations.
Coordinate with the regulatory affairs team to develop labeling, nutritional claims, and compliance documentation.
Maintain an open channel of communication with the sales team to understand customer feedback, retailer requirements, and market reception to R&D innovations.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality Control:

Ensure that all product formulations and manufacturing processes comply with local, national, and international regulatory requirements (FDA, USDA, Health Canada, EFSA, etc.).
Develop and oversee food safety programs, including HACCP, GMP, and other industry-recognized quality standards.
Implement rigorous quality control and assurance processes to maintain product integrity, consistency, and consumer safety.
Work with the legal and compliance teams to validate claims regarding organic, non-GMO, allergen-free, and other product attributes.

Project Management & Budgeting:

Develop and manage R&D budgets, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to meet project deadlines, financial targets, and business goals.
Oversee multiple R&D projects simultaneously, prioritizing initiatives that align with corporate strategy and consumer demand.
Track project progress, identify potential roadblocks, and adjust strategies accordingly to maintain timelines and budgets.
Ensure a cost-effective approach to product development, balancing innovation with profitability.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the R&D Manager – CPG Industry – Orlando, FL, the client seeks a forward-thinking innovator and strategic leader with a strong technical background. You should be passionate about product development, consumer insights, and driving innovation to keep the company at the forefront of the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry.

Proven Expertise in R&D and Product Innovation

The client is looking for an experienced R&D professional with a successful track record of developing and launching new products within the CPG sector. You should have hands-on experience in formulating, testing, and optimizing products while ensuring they align with both consumer preferences and market trends. Your ability to push boundaries and create innovative solutions is highly valued.

Strategic Thinker with Market Awareness

As an R&D Manager, you must demonstrate the ability to translate market insights and consumer data into impactful product strategies. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for emerging trends and the agility to adapt product lines to stay ahead of the competition. Your strategic mindset will be crucial in balancing creativity with commercial viability.

Strong Technical and Scientific Acumen

A solid foundation in science, technology, and product formulation is essential. The client seeks someone with expertise in ingredients, processes, and regulatory requirements. Your ability to oversee product testing, ensure quality control, and troubleshoot technical challenges will drive the company’s innovation pipeline forward.

Project Management and Cross-Functional Collaboration

The client values an R&D leader who excels in project management—balancing multiple projects, setting timelines, and ensuring deliverables are met. You should be comfortable working cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and supply chain teams to ensure smooth product launches and seamless execution.

Leadership and Team Development

Leadership is key to this role. The client seeks a manager who can inspire, mentor, and develop high-performing R&D teams. Your ability to foster a collaborative and innovative environment will be crucial in driving continuous improvement and creative breakthroughs.

Consumer-Centric Approach

A deep understanding of consumer preferences and behavior is essential. The ideal candidate will leverage data and feedback to refine products, ensuring they resonate with target audiences and deliver exceptional user experiences.

Commitment to Quality, Compliance, and Sustainability

Finally, the client values a leader who prioritizes quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices. Your role will involve ensuring all R&D processes adhere to industry standards and ethical practices while exploring eco-friendly innovations.

FAQs About the R&D Manager – CPG Industry Role:

1. What are the main responsibilities of the R&D Manager in the CPG industry?

The R&D Manager will lead product innovation, oversee research and development processes, and work closely with cross-functional teams to launch new products. Responsibilities also include ensuring regulatory compliance, managing R&D budgets, and conducting consumer research to identify product opportunities.

2. What qualifications are required for this position?

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field, along with at least 5 years of R&D experience in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry. Expertise in product formulation, quality control, and regulatory standards is essential.

3. How does the R&D Manager contribute to company growth?

The R&D Manager drives innovation by developing new products, improving existing formulations, and ensuring the company stays ahead of market trends. Their work directly impacts product quality, customer satisfaction, and revenue growth.

4. What skills are crucial for success in this role?

Key skills include product development expertise, project management, problem-solving, cross-functional collaboration, and a strong understanding of CPG market trends.

5. What is the company’s work culture like?

The company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, encouraging creativity and continuous improvement. Employees are supported through professional development opportunities and a strong focus on teamwork.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the R&D Manager – CPG Industry – Orlando, FL, you can expect a competitive compensation package designed to attract top talent in the Consumer Packaged Goods sector. The remuneration for this role typically includes:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for an R&D Manager in the CPG industry depends on factors such as experience, company size, and market presence. In Orlando, FL, the annual base salary typically ranges from $100,000 to $140,000. Larger companies or those with a strong innovation focus may offer salaries at the higher end of this range.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to your base salary, most R&D roles offer performance-based bonuses tied to key innovation and product development goals. These may include successful product launches, cost-effective formulations, and market impact. Bonuses often range from 10% to 25% of the base salary, depending on individual and company performance.

3. Long-Term Incentives

Some companies provide long-term incentive plans (LTIPs) to reward sustained innovation and business impact. These may include profit-sharing plans, stock options, or restricted stock units (RSUs), aligning your compensation with the company’s growth and success.

4. Comprehensive Benefits Package

The role also includes a comprehensive benefits package, which may cover:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) plans with company matching contributions
Paid time off (PTO), including vacation and personal days
Professional development opportunities to stay ahead in the field of R&D and innovation
Employee wellness programs focused on physical and mental health

5. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For highly qualified candidates, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation packages to support your transition. Signing bonuses can range from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the company’s needs and your experience.

Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in your base salary, performance bonuses, and long-term incentives, the total compensation for an R&D Manager in the CPG industry in Orlando can range from $110,000 to $170,000 annually. High-performing managers with proven innovation track records may receive even more competitive offers.

How to Apply

If you are an innovative and results-driven leader with a strong background in Research & Development within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, we invite you to apply for the R&D Manager position in Orlando, FL. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic team, drive product innovation, and contribute to the company’s growth in a competitive market.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your experience in leading R&D initiatives, developing new products, and collaborating across teams to deliver market-leading solutions. Showcase your expertise in consumer insights, product testing, regulatory compliance, and project management.

This role offers an exciting chance to make a significant impact on the company’s product portfolio and innovation pipeline. Apply today to take the next step in your career as an R&D Manager in the CPG industry in Orlando, FL!

For more information or to explore similar opportunities, visit our CPG Careers Page.

Job Category: CPG Industry

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Orlando

R&D Manager – CPG Industry – Orlando, FL