Our client, a leading innovator in the food and beverage manufacturing space, is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Research & Development to lead their product innovation and technical development efforts. This is a high-impact leadership role with visibility across the organization and a direct influence on the future of their product portfolio. This role is with a company in the food & beverage manufacturing industry based out of the Louisville, KY area.

Apply below after reading through all the details and supporting information regarding this job opportunity. Key Responsibilities: Lead the R&D function, overseeing product development, formulation, packaging innovation, and process optimization. Develop and execute a forward-thinking R&D strategy aligned with consumer trends and business goals. Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Regulatory teams to bring new products to market. Manage and mentor a team of scientists and technologists, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes to identify new opportunities. Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and sustainability standards. Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field (PhD preferred). 10+ years of progressive experience in R&D within the food & beverage industry (bakery & confectionery experience). Proven leadership and project management capabilities. Strong technical expertise in product development and scale-up processes. Familiarity with FDA, USDA, and global food safety standards. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.