Overview
In this role you will lead the Netherlands R&D agenda, driving end-to-end product development from ideation to launch while safeguarding brand identity for Verkade and Sultana. You will coach and develop the local R&D team and collaborate with regional and cross-functional leaders to accelerate growth. You’ll balance scientific rigor with market insights to deliver innovative, consumer-led products. This is a strategic, hands-on opportunity to shape the Netherlands innovation roadmap and strengthen brand excellence.
Verantwoordelijkheden
- Lead the Netherlands R&D strategy and pipeline for innovation, renovation, and productivity projects
- Drive end-to-end product development from ideation through launch
- Perform technology mapping for Zaandam to identify opportunities and white space
- Custodian for Verkade and Sultana brands and maintain brand identity guardrails
- Oversee third-party tech partnerships to meet consumer needs
- Serve as a member of the Zaandam NL Leadership Team
- Provide leadership across formulation, ingredients, processing technology, and product performance
- Champion scientific rigor and continuous improvement
- Lead, coach and grow the Netherlands R&D team
- Foster a high-performance, inclusive culture
- Contribute to the UK & Europe R&D Leadership Team
Belangrijkste vereisten
- Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Engineering or related discipline
- Advanced degree desirable
- 5+ years FMCG R&D leadership experience
- 10 years FMCG food experience, ideally baked snacks
- Strong product development and commercialization track record
- Fluent English; Dutch or Turkish desirable
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Proficiency with AI Assistants, Agents, & Competency tools
- Strategic thinking and vision
- People leadership and coaching
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Formulation and processing technology
- Ingredients and product performance optimization
- Technology mapping and innovation pipeline management
Head of Research & Development, the Netherlands in Zaandam werkgever: Jobrapido
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