What are the Key Deliverables in this role?

Financial Outcomes

• Lead the NPD strategy and product pipeline for the RTD business under the supervision of the vertical lead to drive overall category revenue.
• Lead cost innovation and cost‑improvement initiatives for the category to achieve targeted savings and margin improvement.

Customer Service

• Lead product and process development for RTD in line with approved product briefs from business teams.
• Deliver the technical aspects of process‑ and technology‑led initiatives for RTD and related projects, ensuring alignment to timelines, costs, business expectations, and consumer acceptance.
• Lead cross‑functional discussions to enable effective execution of project workstreams.
• Develop and adapt new vendors, technologies, materials, and processes as part of development initiatives.

Internal Processes

• Dive and execute new product development projects across RTD categories including hydration, tea, coffee, dairy, jelly, and emerging value‑added categories.
• Lead discussions on RTD new product strategy to support incremental revenue through product and process innovation, efficiencies, and simplifications.
• Lead commercialization projects in collaboration with Marketing, Operations, Quality, and third‑party partners.
• Lead R&D processes and systems, including Specification Management (PLM) and Sensory Management tools.
• Own product and process specifications, including technology transfer documents and manufacturing protocols, using prescribed templates and systems.
• Ensure adherence to internal processes and procedures, including complete technical documentation such as RM/FG specifications, trial protocols, and reports.

Innovation and Learning

• Keep up to date with Food & Beverage trends, technology landscape, competitor development and consumer and customer expectations
• Generate new ideas in relation to process/ technology platforms aligned with business priorities
• General upkeep of the NPD laboratory, Storage areas and Pilot plant with assistance, wherever required
• Management of temporary resources and lab attendants, wherever required

What are the Critical success factors for the Role?

• Master’s in food science and technology / food engineering from a reputed institute.
• 10- 12 years of professional experience in Foods R&D in Top FMCG organizations.
• Experience in development & processing of liquid beverages category is highly desirable.

What are the Desirable success factors for the Role?

• Customer‑first mindset with an outcomes‑driven approach
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask in a fast‑paced environment
• Ability to manage and positively influence internal stakeholders
• Effective communication and presentation skills