Research and Development Manager

The R&D Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of key product development activities from benchtop development to line trials. They will also help deliver the strategic vision of R&D leadership through the development and implementation of processes and procedures. They will also oversee the work of select product development staff, deliver customer expectations and manage relationships.

Responsibilities

-          Lead multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize according to business needs.

-          Mentor and manage lab technicians and junior food scientists on product development and renovation projects.

-          Represent EMPWR R&D in external customer meetings.

-          Coordinate R&D product development activities by setting clear objectives, managing resources, and maintaining accountability.

-          Implement process improvements within R&D to impact team efficiency and capacity.

-          Track delivery to R&D-owned milestones in support of project timelines.

-          Model and promote a culture of high performance and collaboration.

Qualifications

Required:

-          Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or related field.

-          8+ years of experience in end-to-end food product development, from initial concept to first production preferably in protein bars, snacks bars or candy technologies.

-          At least 2 years of experience managing people.

-          Proven experience taking products from concept to commercialization.

-          Experience with R&D lab and manufacturing environments.

-          Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication abilities.

-          Ability to balance innovation, quality, timelines, and cost.

-          Solid understanding of food processing, shelf life, and sensory evaluation.

-          Knowledge of MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

Preferred

-          Strong knowledge of bar systems (proteins, binders, fibers, sweeteners, fats, inclusions).

-          Project management and cross‑functional leadership skills.

Competencies:

-          Responsible and conscientious

-          Attention to detail

-          Track record of innovation

-          Organized and adaptable to changing priorities

-          Data-driven decision making

-          Excellent written and verbal communication skills

-          Bias for action; results-oriented