Our client is one of the most diversified, specialty ingredient manufacturers in the world. Due to recent expansion they are currently seeking a Director of R&D to manage the R&D Department which focuses on RED MEAT and RED MEAT INGREDIENT APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY. This position will provide strategic direction and leadership, leverage resources, develop relationships and provide global coordination for technologies. The R&D Director - Meats is responsible for developing and implementing strategies that incorporate business unit and commercial objectives.

 RESPONSIBILITIES
Advance technical expertise and knowledge within the Research and Development Department of Company to support new product development, identify and create new platforms that are commercially viable and meets current trends and future needs to create a point of difference in the market.
Technical:
• Provide customers (internal and external) technical support for all meat technologies.
• Utilize both Companies Technologies and Third Party Technologies to deliver on Key projects. Requires an intimate knowledge of the various technologies that Company possesses, globally and regionally.
• Provide Technical advice to senior management on advances / developments within the scientific community that may be of benefit to Company.
• Provide Technical Support to the Sales group and to Companies customers regionally and globally in the completion of key projects as well as technical sales contact with customers.
• Keep abreast of new Technical Developments, Product Launches and Market trends in the Food industry.
• Develop and provide technical sales support for New Technology Platforms that will drive growth for Company e.g. Health & Wellness & Improved Protein Functionality.
• Ensure new product development fits in with existing manufacturing capabilities. Work with Operations to develop new processes / procedures where required to ensure successful scale up and production of products at manufacturing sites.
• Develop relationships with key customers. Improve collaboration with these stakeholders.
• Network with outside resources – Universities, Consultants – to keep up to date with ongoing research.
• Collaborate with other technical teams within Company to identify ingredient systems which bring unique value.
Team Management & Development
• The R&D Director is responsible for the hiring and development of employees for this R&D department.
• The performance of the R&D team is the responsibility of the R&D Director.
• Adequate resource alignment is required to ensure key projects are delivered on time.
• Clearly communicate Management Strategy to R&D Team along with R&D Vice President.

REQUIREMENTS
• Must have a Masters or PHD in Food Science or Meat Science.
• Must have 8 to 10+ years experience working with Red Meat, Meat Technology and Applications for red meats.
• Must have demonstrated technical expertise in meat ingredient applications technology.
• Must have experience managing a group of technical staff. (Prefer applicants at the Director or VP level)
• Must have the ability to influence and persuade others.
• Must have the ability to work through and with diverse personalities while being tactful and professional.
• Must be available to travel frequently/as needed
• Must have excellent communication skills, written and verbal.
• Ability to lead and motivate staff while maintaining an environment conducive to be creative
• Must have Strong PC skills

In return, our client offers a very competitive salary, bonus opportunity, world class benefits, relocation and opportunity for career expansion. Send resume to email provided for immediate consideration or call 815-623-3600 for more details