Research & Development Manager

Lactalis South Africa; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Lactalis South Africa is seeking a dynamic and experienced Research & Development Manager to lead innovation across Cheese, Butter, and Powders categories. The role involves driving product development, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, and managing R&D projects to align with strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in R&D management within dairy.
• Deep understanding of ingredient functionality and processing technologies.
• Sound knowledge of food safety regulations and quality management systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end product development from ideation to commercialization.
• Ensure product designs comply with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical support and optimize production capabilities.

Skills

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Engineering

Job description

Role Purpose

Lactalis South Africa is seeking a dynamic and experienced Research & Development Manager to lead and support innovation and product development across our Cheese, Butter, and Powders categories. This role is pivotal in driving projects from concept through to commercialisation, including new product development, reformulations, and quality improvement initiatives, in alignment with the company’s strategic objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Food Science, Food Technology, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in R&D management within the dairy industry - mandatory.
• Proven track record in project management within an R&D setting.
• Deep understanding of ingredient functionality, technical fundamentals, and processing technologies.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and manage multiple priorities.
• Flexibility to travel extensively and work variable hours to meet trial & development requirements.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Sound knowledge of food safety regulations, quality management systems, and compliance standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Product Development
• Lead and execute the end-to-end product development process—from ideation, recipe formulation, trials, scale-up in manufacturing, and commercialization.
• Conduct technical feasibility assessments and experimental design using sound scientific methodology.
• Ensure adherence to internal trial protocols and compile comprehensive technical reports for each stage of development.
• Ensure all products are safe for consumer use, ensuring raw materials and finished goods meet safety and specification standards.
• Product Specifications & Regulatory Compliance
• Develop and maintain accurate R&D documentation at all stages of the product life cycle.
• Ensure product designs comply with regulatory requirements and internal policies related to labelling, safety, and quality.
• Technical Support & Problem Solving
• Provide expert technical support to Manufacturing, Procurement, and Suppliers by troubleshooting quality and operational challenges.
• Deliver actionable recommendations and data-driven insights to optimize efficiency and increase production capabilities.
• Organisational Excellence & Stakeholder Engagement
• Establish and maintain a strong technical network across functions, for local and global teams.
• Ensure timely and effective communication with stakeholders to drive project delivery.
• Foster a collaborative environment to promote team engagement and cross-functional success.