Head of R&D (Flour Applications & Bakery Science)

about the company
Our client is an established manufacturing company with a massive footprint across Southeast Asia. Backed by one of the largest conglomerates in the region, they are currently executing a major multi-million-dollar greenfield expansion, including building a state-of-the-art facility to capture larger markets. They are known for stability, massive regional scale, and a strong commitment to their clients. 

about the job

This is a high-visibility, regional leadership role created for an "inventor at heart" who wants to build a legacy. You will oversee the product application strategy across the markets. 

• Greenfield Lab Architecture: Take ownership of designing, equipping, and building a brand-new, flagship application and test baking lab from scratch at the new facility.
• Strategy: Drive the technical product and application roadmap across the markets. 
• Commercial Co-Creation: Act as the trusted technical face of the brand, partnering directly with major B2B industrial and artisanal clients to optimize their lines and co-develop customized recipes.
• Trend Filtering & Innovation: Look past short-term food fads to identify major shifts in consumer behavior and translate them into high-margin commercial realities.

about the manager/team
You will step into a highly collaborative environment. You will report directly to the Group C-suite, ensuring your vision has immediate backing. You will drive technical synergy across Southeast Asia, acting as a matrix leader to upskill local teams. As the function scales, you will also have the autonomy to hire your own team of experts.

skills and experience required

• Academic foundation in Food Science or a related technical discipline, paired with a deep, unmistakable passion for hands-on baking and culinary applications.
• You possess a strong entrepreneurial spirit and are genuinely energized by high-stakes challenges. You do not just take orders from above - you bring independent ideas to the table, challenge the status quo, and treat the business function like it is your own.
• You have "Greenfield DNA" and thrive outside of rigid corporate structures. You are excited by ambiguity and love the freedom of establishing function from scratch.
• Proven experience in a technical, client-facing application or R&D role within the B2B food ingredients, bakery, or food industries. You can bridge the gap between rigorous lab science and charismatic customer engagement.
• Be ready for frequent travel footprint across Southeast Asia to empower regional teams and command client relationships.

To apply online please use the 'apply' function, alternatively you may contact Florence Pang via LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/florence-pang-14742515a/ or email at [email protected]

(EA: 94C3609/ R25139901)