Assistant R&D Manager

Americana Restaurants; Sharjah; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food company is seeking a Product Development Specialist to enhance its product line through effective commercialization strategies. The role involves coordinating with suppliers, conducting rigorous evaluations, and ensuring product quality meets brand standards. Ideal candidates will have a degree in food science or related fields and substantial experience in food product development, particularly within restaurant chains.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in food manufacturing or product development.
• Alternative: Minimum 3 years in new product development for dining chains.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with internal departments to align project timelines.
• Manage product evaluations and conduct production trials.
• Oversee store trials and troubleshoot new product implementation.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science & Technology

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Job description

Purpose of the Role:

To support the R&D Manager in the successful commercialization of new products by managing the approval process for new suppliers and products, conducting production and in-store trials, evaluating product performance, and ensuring timely and effective product launches across Americana brands. This role plays a pivotal role in aligning cross-functional stakeholders and maintaining product quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with internal departments including Procurement, QA, Marketing, and Operations to align on project timelines, product specifications, and launch plans.
• Coordinate with external partners such as suppliers and franchisors to ensure product alignment with brand standards and successful commercialization.
• Lead product matching activities for new suppliers, ensuring alignment with technical and brand-specific requirements.
• Manage and conduct product evaluations, including sensory testing, to determine product suitability and readiness for market.
• Execute production trials at supplier sites to validate process capabilities, product consistency, and compliance with quality standards.
• Organize and oversee store trials for new or improved products; gather feedback and assess operational fit and customer acceptance.
• Troubleshoot issues related to new product implementation by working closely with suppliers and internal QA teams.
• Provide technical input and support in resolving product quality complaints and participate in root cause analysis when necessary.
• Ensure all product documentation, specifications, and approvals are properly completed and maintained.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science & Technology, Chemistry, or Engineering (Agricultural, Chemical)

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in food manufacturing, product development, or commercialization or;
• Minimum 3 years of experience in new product development within quick service or casual dining restaurant chains

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all organizational levels and with external stakeholders
• Project management skills with the ability to handle multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Practical problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Knowledge of food production, quality assurance, and sensory evaluation
• Willingness and flexibility to travel to supplier sites and restaurant locations