VP of Innovation, R&D & Product Strategy

Ruiz Foods; Frisco (TX); Presencial; USD 180.000 - 300.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

Ruiz Foods is seeking a strategic, experienced Vice President of Research & Development and Innovation to lead product innovation, R&D strategy, and portfolio growth.

This executive will oversee product development, food science, commercialization, and sensory programs, collaborating with Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Quality to drive market‑ready products that meet taste, quality, value, and performance expectations.

Formación

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive food industry experience.
• Minimum 8 years of leadership experience managing R&D, product development, innovation, or commercialization functions.
• Experience within CPG, food manufacturing, or foodservice industries required.
• Proven record of bringing successful products to market and leading innovation portfolios.

Responsabilidades

• Develop and execute the company's innovation and product development strategy to support growth, profitability, and long‑term business objectives.
• Lead all Research & Development and Innovation activities from concept through commercialization.
• Drive the innovation pipeline by identifying consumer trends, competitive opportunities, and new product platforms.
• Partner with Marketing, Sales, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Finance to ensure successful commercialization of new and improved products.
• Establish priorities for product development initiatives, ensuring resources are aligned with strategic objectives and business needs.
• Provide technical leadership in food science, product formulation, ingredient functionality, product quality attributes, and manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with Quality and Food Safety teams to ensure products consistently meet company standards, regulatory requirements, and consumer expectations.
• Support continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to enhance product quality, consistency, and overall consumer experience.
• Build, develop, and lead a high‑performing team by fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Manage the R&D budget, innovation portfolio, and related performance metrics to ensure effective use of resources and achievement of business objectives.
• Serve as a key member of the leadership team, providing strategic recommendations that support growth, operational excellence, and innovation leadership.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Product development

Strategic planning

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Food science

Budget management

Communication

People management

Educación

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Descripción del empleo

Ruiz Foods is seeking a strategic, experienced Vice President of Research & Development and Innovation to lead product innovation, R&D strategy, and portfolio growth.

This executive will oversee product development, food science, commercialization, and sensory programs, collaborating with Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Quality to drive market‑ready products that meet taste, quality, value, and performance expectations.