VMS R&D Innovation Lead

Nestlé Health Science; Bridgewater Township (NJ); On-site; USD 184,000 - 228,000; Full time

Job summary

Nestlé Health Science, Bridgewater, NJ, seeks a Senior Manager R&D Lead to drive innovation for a strategic VMS brand. You will partner with business teams to identify priorities, leverage emerging science and clinical insights, and deliver consumer-focused innovations that sustain long-term brand success.

In-office presence weekly. The role requires a Master's with 10+ years in R&D leadership, strong cross-functional collaboration, and impactful communication across global stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Nutrition, Food Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related discipline required, Ph.D. preferred.
• 10+ years of R&D experience with a track record of leading innovation and managing technical knowledge within operational environments.
• Proven leadership skills in working with global business and markets’ stakeholders to influence strategic business objectives through R&D innovation.
• Deep understanding of the VMS industry, competitive landscape, and evolving consumer insights.
• Growth‑oriented mindset with enthusiasm for leveraging digital tools and technologies.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to navigate cross‑functional and matrixed environments.
• Effective communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence diverse audiences.
• Demonstrates strong integrity, accountability, and professional ethics.

Responsibilities

• R&D representative for the corresponding VMS brand, aligning business needs with R&D opportunities.
• Co‑leads the definition of the Innovation & Renovation (I&R) pipeline for the corresponding VMS brand, developing short, mid and long‑term plans to support future innovation with new concepts and technologies.
• Provides technical expertise on future product development, including new ingredients, products, and processes, and translates science and technology solutions into commercially viable pipeline opportunities.
• Oversees the strategic VMS project portfolio and partners cross‑functionally with Product Development and Project Management teams to ensure innovation launches are delivered on time and within budget.
• Builds and manages strategic partnerships across the Nestlé R&D network, suppliers, and key external stakeholders to advance brand innovation.
• Strengthens organizational capabilities aligned with R&D and business priorities, while developing talent, succession pipelines, and knowledge transfer plans to ensure long‑term team effectiveness.
• Creates synergies through effective networking with all relevant R&D Units, business partners, markets, and external partners.
• Comply with Nestlé Integrated Management Systems and all company policies and procedures.

Skills

Scientific communication

Talent development

Innovation culture

Entrepreneurial mindset

Cross-functional

Regulatory affairs

External partnerships

Education

Master's degree in Nutrition/Food Science/Pharmaceutical Sciences

Ph.D. preferred

Job description

Nestlé Health Science, Bridgewater, NJ, seeks a Senior Manager R&D Lead to drive innovation for a strategic VMS brand. You will partner with business teams to identify priorities, leverage emerging science and clinical insights, and deliver consumer-focused innovations that sustain long-term brand success.

In-office presence weekly. The role requires a Master's with 10+ years in R&D leadership, strong cross-functional collaboration, and impactful communication across global stakeholders.