Global Vice President, Innovation - QSR

Michael Page International Pte Ltd; Singapore; On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the QSR sector is seeking a Global VP of Innovation (R&D) to shape the future of their product portfolio. This hands-on role involves leading a diverse team, driving innovation across product categories, and ensuring alignment with global brand strategies. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in product development within the food and beverage sector, a strong understanding of market trends, and the ability to collaborate effectively across functions. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic and growing company.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in product or innovation roles in food and beverage.
• Experience in new product development from concept to consumer.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute the global R&D vision, driving innovation.
• Lead the development of new menu items and technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Innovation Management

Market Intelligence

Food Safety Knowledge

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Education

PhD in Food Science

Masters in Chemistry

Job description

The Global VP, Innovation (R&D) will report to the Global CMO and manage a globally distributed team of product and R&D staff who ensure the regional R&D functions are aligned with global brand strategies. This is a hands on role that requires you to study customer needs and relay the 'voice of customer' in the future brand strategies.

Client Details

Our client is a successful, profitable and renowned player in the QSR space. With operations in more than fifty countries and a vast retail presence across several key brands, they have delivered consecutive record years in revenue and profitability. Over the last few years, they have built and acquired major QSR brands and are looking to widen their brand and market dominance. The Global VP, Innovation (R&D) will be shape the future of the firm's product portfolio and own the innovation for their brands. This is a senior, permanent role.

Description

The Global VP, Innovation (R&D) will report to the Global CMO and manage a globally distributed team of product and R&D staff who ensure the regional R&D functions are aligned with global brand strategies. This is a hands on role that requires you to study customer needs and relay the 'voice of customer' in the future brand strategies. You will also provide guidance to Franchisees and other brands owned by the group.

The measures of success in this role are:

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Set and execute the global R&D vision, driving innovation across all product categories to align with business objectives and customer trends.
• Innovation Pipeline: Lead the discovery, development, and commercialization of new menu items, ingredients, and technologies that differentiate the brand in the market.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain, and external partners to ensure seamless product launches and operational excellence.
• Team Development: Build, inspire, and develop a high-performing, diverse R&D organization across multiple geographies.
• Quality & Compliance: Oversee food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance for all new and existing products.
• Market Intelligence: Stay ahead of industry trends, consumer insights, and emerging technologies to inform the innovation roadmap.
• Resource Management: Manage global R&D budgets, resources, and timelines to maximize efficiency and impact.

Profile

• PhD or Masters in Food Science, Chemistry, or a relevant discipline.
• Minimum fifteen years' experience in product or innovation roles in the food and beverage sector, with at least three years in a highly scaled food brand.
• Experience in new product development, with concept to consumer is critical and exposure to both food and beverage SKUs would be highly preferred.
• Deep knowledge of food safety, regulatory requirements, and commercialisation processes.
• Expertise in hiring, training and development global product and development teams.
• Collaborative nature, ability to partner brand marketing, brand design teams to take products to consumer.
• Flexibility to travel, up to 40%

Job Offer

This is a new role, created to enhance and expand our client's global product portfolio. We are looking for someone who has created new products in food and beverage categories. You will be part of the global marketing function that oversees more than fifty markets and ten brands. The fixed compensation for this role will be competitive and candidates who have worked for global food, beverage or QSR brands will find this an excellent fit.

Due to the high application volume for senior roles, we will only be able to respond to shortlisted applicants.