R&D Director (Central)

Brief Summary:
We are seeking a dynamic leader to spearhead research and innovation strategies, aligning them with business goals. This role offers the opportunity to impact scientific validation and commercialization across various programs.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the overall research and innovation strategy in alignment with business objectives.
• Identify and establish strategic research partnerships with universities and scientific collaborators across Asia.
• Design and oversee new research programmes, including in-vitro, in-vivo, and human clinical studies to validate ingredients and products.
• Lead negotiations with research partners on project scope, budgets, timelines, intellectual property ownership, and commercialization rights.
• Manage a portfolio of research projects to support current and future business opportunities.
• Provide leadership on research priorities and resource allocation to maximize scientific and commercial outcomes.
• Supervise external research projects to ensure quality and timely deliverables are achieved.
• Translate market opportunities and insights into actionable research directions and scientific programmes.
• Collaborate closely with product development and business teams to support product validation and commercialization efforts.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and scientific trends relevant to wellness and consumer health.
• Represent the organization to internal and external stakeholders, including research partners and corporate leadership.
• Report directly to the Chief Scientific Officer.

Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Food Science, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Nutrition, Biotechnology, or related fields.
• Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in R&D leadership and innovation management.
• Proven experience managing external research programmes and multidisciplinary scientific collaborations.
• Ability to source, evaluate, and manage research partners and scientific institutions.
• Experience in negotiating research contracts and commercialization agreements.
• Strong understanding of clinical and applied research methodologies.
• Background in FMCG, consumer health, wellness, or biotechnology is preferred.
• Demonstrated success in R&D project management and strategic planning.
• Proven capacity to connect scientific research with commercial opportunities.
• Experience managing stakeholders across scientific and operational functions.

EA License No.: 01C4394 (PERSOL SINGAPORE PTE LTD)

Registration No.: R23112488 (Julian Nerchan)

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