R&D Manager: Food Tech Innovation & New Products

Woodpeckers Group Sdn Bhd; Selangor; On-site; MYR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

comprehensive health and medical cover

opportunities for professional dev/trA

supportive collaborative environment

career advancement within organisation

Job summary

WOODPECKERS GROUP SDN. BHD. seeks a Research and Development Manager in Kota Damansara, Selangor to lead R&D initiatives in the food technology and safety sector.

The role oversees product development projects, drives innovation, and ensures compliance with standards and regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will manage supply chains, collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and Finance, and guide the team to launch new brands and items while maintaining quality and operational

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, Culinary Arts, or related field.
• Minimum 5–8 years’ experience in F&B R&D or product development, preferably in beverages, frozen desserts, or QSR/café concepts.
• Proven experience taking products from concept to commercial launch in a multi-brand/outlet environment.
• Strong knowledge of Malaysian consumer preferences, Halal requirements, and F&B trends.
• Exposure to international F&B trends and delivery platforms is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead product innovation and new product development strategy across all brands.
• Develop, formulate, test, and standardise new recipes and products.
• Manage product costing, pricing, profitability, and commercial viability.
• Develop LTOs, seasonal products, campaigns, and delivery-exclusive items.
• Lead product presentation, food styling, photoshoots, and packaging development.
• Ensure new products are operationally feasible with proper SOPs and training materials.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, Halal, regulatory, and quality standards.
• Monitor market trends, competitors, and consumer insights to identify innovation opportunities.
• Manage suppliers, ingredients, product testing, and approved supplier lists.
• Lead the R&D team and collaborate with Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain and Finance on product development and new brand launches.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, Culinary Arts, or related field

Job description

WOODPECKERS GROUP SDN. BHD. seeks a Research and Development Manager in Kota Damansara, Selangor to lead R&D initiatives in the food technology and safety sector.

The role oversees product development projects, drives innovation, and ensures compliance with standards and regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will manage supply chains, collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and Finance, and guide the team to launch new brands and items while maintaining quality and operational