R&D Optimisation Manager: Formulation & Cost Savings

Tegel Foods; Papakura; On-site; NZD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver 4%

Medical insurance

Life insurance

Staff product discounts

Free onsite parking

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Jora New Zealand is seeking a driven R&D professional to lead the optimisation portfolio across three production sites. You will drive formulation, ingredients, packaging, specifications, and systems improvements to deliver measurable value while maintaining product quality and compliance.

You will manage cross-functional partnerships with Packaging, Operations, Technical, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams, develop business cases, track benefits, and realise cost-saving

Qualifications

• Degree in Food Science/Technology or related discipline with significant R&D experience.
• 8–10 years' experience in product development, formulation, optimisation, or technical project leadership within FMCG.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, packaging, and commercial product delivery.
• Proven ability to lead complex cross‑functional projects and influence a broad range of stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver the R&D optimisation portfolio from opportunities through to implementation and benefit realisation.
• Lead formulation, ingredient, and specification optimisation initiatives to improve cost, quality, and product performance.
• Develop business cases, track commercial benefits, and ensure delivery against optimisation targets.
• Partner with cross-functional teams across Packaging, Procurement, Operations, Technical, and Supply Chain to evaluate and execute opportunities.
• Drive continuous improvement across R&D systems and processes to enhance efficiency and ways of working.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Communication

Presentation

R&D optimisation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Degree in Food Science

Degree in Food Technology

Job description

Jora New Zealand is seeking a driven R&D professional to lead the optimisation portfolio across three production sites. You will drive formulation, ingredients, packaging, specifications, and systems improvements to deliver measurable value while maintaining product quality and compliance.

You will manage cross-functional partnerships with Packaging, Operations, Technical, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams, develop business cases, track benefits, and realise cost-saving