Food Innovation and Technology (FIT) Manager

KFC Corporation; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

KFC Corporation in Singapore is looking for a Food Innovation and Technology (FIT) Manager. In this role, you will lead innovative food processes within KFC's Franchise system. Key responsibilities include guiding R&D teams, collaborating with cross-functional partners for new product development, and ensuring adherence to KFC Brand Standards. The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in food technology and a minimum of 10 years' experience in the Food Industry. This role offers opportunities to improve product success through global best practices.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in the Food Industry with knowledge of product development.
• Experience with multinational companies and QSR systems.
• Strong team player with cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead food innovation programs with KFC market FIT teams.
• Collaborate with Franchisee and cross-functional teams on product development.
• Manage Supplier Innovation review program and ensure compliance with Food Safety standards.

Skills

Food Industry Experience

Cross-functional Collaboration

Product Development

Food Technology Trends

Communication Skills

Education

M.Sc in Food Technology/Science

B.Sc in Food Engineering

Job description

Food Innovation and Technology (FIT) Manager

Job Description

At KFC Asia, we believe in the power of innovation to transform the QSR industry. As a FIT Manager, you will play a crucial role in driving successful Food Innovation processes and output within our Franchise system. Your expertise will guide and support Franchisee R&D teams in developing Marketing and Innovation pipelines, ensuring we stay at the forefront of food technology and delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of Consumer Insight‑driven Food Innovation Programs with KFC market FIT teams.
• Collaborate with the KFC Franchisee and Yum! cross‑functional teams to lead the Food Innovation Program, ensuring alignment with the menu vision and Marketing Calendar.
• Provide technical support to KFC Supply Chain Management, Operations, and Marketing for New Product Development (NPD) and non‑NPD projects.
• Build and share your expertise by networking with KFC non‑equity markets and facilitating best practice sharing with country NPD peers.
• Leverage global networks to bring global best practices to KFC Asia, improving our innovation success rate.
• Champion and execute KFC Brand Standards for all core products and menu items, ensuring consistent quality.
• Develop a thorough understanding of KFC in‑store operations, capabilities, and limitations.
• Manage the monthly Supplier Innovation review program, selecting relevant ideas for market review and testing.
• Collaborate closely with the AFBU QA team to ensure all NPD complies with Food Safety standards.
• Actively promote the innovation process, assisting countries in setting up and managing relevant KPI‑based tracking systems.

Qualifications

• Tertiary degree or M.Sc in Food Technology/Science is essential; B.Sc in Food Engineering will be considered.
• Minimum 10 years of Food Industry experience with knowledge of product development, life cycles, processing, and ingredient science & functionality.
• Experience with QSR restaurant systems is a must; Food Service experience with multi‑unit operation and restaurant design, layout, and equipment is preferred.
• Experience with multinational companies is preferred, with a proven track record of successful product launches across multiple platforms, especially in Asia.
• Strong team player with efficient cross‑functional, cross‑geography, and cross‑culture collaboration skills.
• Ability to develop, evaluate, and improve concepts, products, and systems using known and new technology trends.
• Skill in interpreting and utilizing Consumer, Marketing, and Competitive insights to drive product development.
• Ability to drive projects to timely conclusions, providing comprehensive reports and sound recommendations.
• Excellent communication, planning, organizing, and presentation skills.
• Strong work ethic, interpersonal skills, and the ability to influence and lead from behind.

Reporting to the Chief Marketing Officer, this person will work closely with a great support network and enablers:

Franchisee FIT Teams

Franchisee Marketing Teams

Suppliers for product, packaging & technology

Internal teams within the Restaurant Corporate Centre (RSC)