Job Description

Job Category:

=================

Research & Development

Job Family:

===============

Research and Development

:

====================

This position will lead the Research & Development and New Product Development function for Schreiber Foods (Dairy & Beverages) a

special emphasis on Cheese innovation

. The role will be responsible for driving

product innovation, process optimization, and technical excellence

while ensuring compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory standards. This position will play a pivotal role in strengthening market leadership by developing new cheese variants and dairy-based products aligned with consumer needs and business strategy.

What you'll do:

Product Innovation & Development

Lead the design, development, and launch of

new cheese products

(processed, natural, specialty, value-added). Drive innovation across the

dairy & beverages portfolio

including milk-based beverages, yogurt, and value-added dairy. Develop consumer-centric products based on

market insights, trends, and sensory evaluation

. Manage

pilot plant trials, scale-up, and commercialization

of new products.

Process & Yield Improvement

Optimize cheese-making processes for

higher yield, improved texture, and flavor consistency

. Implement

process technologies

that reduce wastage and enhance operational efficiency. Work closely with plant operations to troubleshoot and improve manufacturing performance.

Research & Technology Leadership

Stay abreast of global developments in cheese science, dairy technology, and functional ingredients. Build collaborations with

universities, research institutes, and technology partners

. Evaluate and implement

emerging technologies

(automation, fermentation, cultures, enzymes).

Quality & Regulatory Compliance

Ensure all products meet

FSSAI, Codex, and international food safety standards

. Establish robust testing, validation, and shelf-life protocols. Partner with Quality Assurance to resolve issues in product stability and compliance.

Leadership & Team Development

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing

R&D and NPD team

. Foster a

culture of innovation, curiosity, and continuous improvement

. Collaborate cross-functionally with

Marketing, Supply Chain, Sales, and Operations

.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Successful launch of

X new cheese SKUs annually

.

Yield improvement %

in cheese production.

Reduction in salvage/wastage %

through R&D interventions. Time-to-market efficiency for new products. Consumer acceptance scores and repeat sales for new launches

What you need to succeed:

Master's/PhD in

Dairy Technology, Food Science, or Food Engineering

.

15+ years

of R&D and product development experience in the

dairy industry

, with at least

5+ years in cheese development/technology

. Proven track record of

leading NPD projects from concept to commercialization

. Strong knowledge of

cheese microbiology, fermentation, cultures, and dairy chemistry

. Experience in managing

pilot plants, scale-up, and industrial production trials

. Exposure to

international markets and consumer trends

in dairy will be an advantage.

Behavioral Competencies

Strategic thinker with strong

business acumen and consumer orientation

. Ability to

influence cross-functional teams and stakeholders

. Passion for

innovation and continuous improvement

. * Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.