Research And Development Specialist

Savola Foods Company; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food company in the UAE seeks a Product Development Specialist to lead new product initiatives from concept to commercialization. The role involves collaboration across teams, sensory evaluation, and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in product development and a passion for innovation in food products.

Qualifications

• Experience in product development from concept to commercialization.
• Strong analytical skills for sensory data interpretation.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new food products and ensure market compliance.
• Design and execute sensory evaluation protocols.
• Support regulatory documentation and compliance efforts.

Skills

Product Development

Sensory Evaluation

Regulatory Compliance

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Project Management

Job description

Product Development

• Lead the development of new food products from concept to commercialization in line with project briefs and business goals.
• Ensure products meet market expectations in taste, texture, cost, nutrition, and process feasibility.
• Work closely with the procurement team to identify and source the right ingredients for development.
• Support scale-up from lab prototypes to full-scale production in collaboration with operations and quality teams.
• Continuously improve existing products based on market trends, consumer feedback, and business needs.
• Provide regular updates on project progress to line management.

Sensory Evaluation

• Design and execute sensory evaluation protocols suitable for panels and workshops.
• Analyze sensory data and translate findings into actionable product improvements.
• Prepare and present clear reports on sensory outcomes to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Maintain thorough documentation of all sensory tests and protocols.

Regulatory, Safety & Compliance

• Support compliance efforts and audit readiness by managing regulatory documentation for assigned product categories.
• Ensure all products comply with local and international food safety standards.
• Monitor production processes to identify and resolve quality issues.
• Conduct accelerated and real-time shelf-life studies to ensure product stability.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with marketing, production, procurement, and supply chain teams for product launch readiness.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to source alternative ingredients as needed.
• Actively participate in cross-functional meetings and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Project Management & Documentation

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation including master data, product specs, formulations, and artwork.
• Record all stages of development including trial results, recipe revisions, and process changes.
• Support the development of technical reports and presentations for internal use.
• Conduct process audits and communicate findings or recipe discrepancies for corrective action.