R&D Laboratory Manager

The Legends Agency; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing flavour and colour provider in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced R&D Laboratory Manager. This role involves leading the lab team to execute innovative projects in the flavours and colour industry, mentoring staff, and overseeing laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Chemistry or Food Science and at least 5 years of relevant management experience. The company offers a market-related salary and a chance for professional growth in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Market-related salary

6% provident fund contribution

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in an R&D or laboratory management role.
• Proven experience managing R&D or laboratory teams.
• Excellent project management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the laboratory team in executing flavour and colour R&D.
• Manage multiple client briefs from concept to delivery.
• Mentor and guide junior staff to enhance team capabilities.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Mentoring

Flavour Evaluation

Analytical Skills

Education

Degree in Chemistry or Food Science

Management qualification

Job description

Overview

R&D Laboratory Manager
Midrand | Market-related salary + 6% provident fund contribution | 8am -5pm hours

About Our Client

Our client is a growing specialist in the design, development, and supply of flavours and colours to the food and beverage industry. With a focus on creativity, technical excellence, and collaborative partnerships, the company is building a reputation as a trusted provider of customised solutions. They offer a fast-paced environment where innovative professionals can make a real impact and grow into senior leadership roles.

The Role

R&D Laboratory Manager
This role leads the laboratory team in the execution of flavour and colour R&D, ensuring timely, client-focused delivery of innovative solutions. The successful candidate will play a strategic role in managing projects, mentoring staff, and shaping the companys product development capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Minimum 5 years experience in an R&D or laboratory management role

• Develop and implement flavour and colour development strategies and projects

• Manage multiple client briefs from concept to delivery

• Translate client briefs into actionable development guidelines

• Lead flavour evaluation, stability trials, and troubleshooting within the lab

• Mentor and guide junior staff to enhance team capabilities

• Monitor trends and consumer preferences to inform innovation

• Oversee laboratory operations, consumables, stock, and protocols

• Collaborate with management, QC, sales, and technical teams to align development goals

• Report monthly on laboratory progress, resources, and efficiency

About You

• Degree in Chemistry, Food Science, or related field

• Management qualification advantageous

• Proven experience managing R&D or laboratory teams

• Strong leadership and mentoring skills

• Knowledge of flavour evaluation and gustatory/olfactive analysis an advantage

• Understanding of the flavour and colour market

• Excellent project management and communication skills

• Ability to work across diverse teams and resolve technical challenges