Research and Development Manager

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

Jora Malaysia will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

We are seeking a Research and Development Manager to join WOODPECKERS GROUP SDN. BHD. in Kota Damansara, Selangor. This is a full-time position that offers a strategic opportunity to lead and manage our research and development initiatives within the food technology and safety sector. As R&D Manager, you will be responsible for driving innovation, overseeing product development projects, and ensuring that all food safety standards and regulatory requirements are met. This role is integral to our company's mission to develop cutting-edge food technology solutions and maintain the highest standards of food safety in our operations.

Key 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.

What we're looking for

• 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.
• Experience in frozen desserts, milk tea, specialty beverages, or lifestyle drinks is an advantage.
• Exposure to international F&B trends and delivery platforms is a plus.

What we offer

WOODPECKERS GROUP SDN. BHD. is committed to supporting the professional growth and wellbeing of our employees. We offer a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications.

• comprehensive health and medical coverage
• opportunities for continuing professional development and training
• a supportive and collaborative work environment
• potential for career advancement within the organisation

We value work-life balance and encourage our team members to maintain their personal wellbeing whilst contributing to our mission.

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and supported in their roles.