R&D Manager: Food Safety & Innovation Leader

KLT FRUITS, INC.; Dasmariñas; On-site; PHP 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

KLT FRUITS, INC. seeks a senior leader to steer the Research & Development team, delivering strategic direction, mentorship, and performance management to drive innovation in fruit processing and food safety.

You will develop strategies aligned with company goals and oversee multiple projects from concept to validation. The role requires extensive experience in food technology, safety, and research leadership, with strong skills in project management, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in food science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related scientific discipline; master's degree preferred
• Minimum 8 years of professional experience in research and development, with at least 3 years in a management or leadership capacity
• Substantial experience in food technology, food safety, or food science research, particularly within the fruit or fresh produce industry
• Demonstrated expertise in food safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and industry standards (including HACCP, ISO certifications, and food safety legislation)
• Strong project management skills with proven ability to oversee multiple research projects simultaneously whilst meeting deadlines and budget constraints
• Experience leading, developing, and motivating research teams in a collaborative environment
• Advanced proficiency in research methodologies, statistical analysis, and laboratory techniques
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly to diverse audiences
• Strong problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking to develop practical solutions for food quality and safety challenges
• Knowledge of product development cycles and commercialisation processes
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and research software tools

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the research and development team, providing strategic direction, mentorship, and performance management to drive innovation
• Develop and implement comprehensive research strategies aligned with company objectives, focusing on food safety, product quality, and technological advancement
• Oversee the design, planning, and execution of research projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards
• Conduct and supervise experimental research, testing, and validation of new products, processes, and technologies relevant to fruit processing and food safety
• Ensure all research activities comply with food safety regulations, industry standards, and regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality assurance, and commercial departments to translate research findings into practical applications
• Document research findings, maintain detailed records, and prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders
• Identify emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in food technology and safety, recommending adoption where appropriate
• Manage research budgets and resource allocation to optimise departmental efficiency and return on investment
• Establish and maintain relationships with external research institutions, suppliers, and industry partners to support innovation initiatives

Skills

Leadership

Strategy

Mentorship

Communication

Food safety

Regulatory compliance

Project management

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in food science or related discipline

Master's degree preferred

Tools

LIMS

Statistical software

Job description

KLT FRUITS, INC. seeks a senior leader to steer the Research & Development team, delivering strategic direction, mentorship, and performance management to drive innovation in fruit processing and food safety.

You will develop strategies aligned with company goals and oversee multiple projects from concept to validation. The role requires extensive experience in food technology, safety, and research leadership, with strong skills in project management, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional