Head of Research & Development

Job Purpose:Leads Malee Group’s research, development, and innovation agenda across all product categories, driving consumer-centric and commercially successful innovations from concept to launch. Responsible for overseeing product development, formulation, commercialization, and continuous improvement while ensuring technical excellence, product quality, and regulatory compliance.Key Responsibilities1. Innovation Strategy & LeadershipDevelop and execute the Group's R&D and innovation strategy aligned with business objectives and growth priorities.Build a high-performing R&D organization that fosters scientific excellence, collaboration, and continuous innovation.Establish structured innovation processes and governance to improve speed, efficiency, and project success rates.2. Product Development & CommercializationLead end-to-end product development across categories.Drive product renovation, reformulation, and cost optimizationwhile maintaining superior quality and consumer satisfaction.Ensure successful commercialization through close collaboration with relevant stakeholders.3. Technical ExcellenceProvide technical leadership in formulation, ingredient functionality, processing tech, food safety, and product stability.Lead complex troubleshooting initiatives involving product quality, manufacturing processes, and technical challenges.Apply scientific research and emerging technologies to continuously enhance product performance and competitiveness.4. Consumer & Market InnovationTranslate consumer insights, market trends, and scientific advancements into commercially viable products.Identify emerging technologies, ingredients, and innovation opportunities to strengthen the Group's product portfolio.Promote evidence-based decision-making by leveraging scientific publications, and global industry best practices.5. Cross-functional CollaborationCollaborate with external partners, universities, suppliers, and research institutions to accelerate innovation and technology adoption.Serve as a strategic advisor to senior management on innovation, technology, and product development opportunities.6. Compliance & Continuous ImprovementEnsure all products comply with regulatory requirements, food safety standards, and relevant quality systems.Identify emerging technologies, ingredients, and innovation opportunities to strengthen the Group's product portfolio.QualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.Strong knowledge of food regulations, quality management systems, and international food safety standards.Minimum 10+ years of R&D experience in the food, beverage, dairy, or consumer goods industry, including leadership responsibilities.Proficient in Thai and English, both written and spoken.Proven expertise in product formulation, food processing, commercialization, quality systems, and innovation management.Experience in dairy manufacturing and/or multinational food and beverage organizations is preferred.Strong understanding of stage-gate innovation processes, consumer-led innovation, and portfolio management.Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical and manufacturing challenges using scientific and data-driven approaches.Strong leadership, stakeholder management, project management, analytical, and business acumen skills.Passion for innovation, continuous learning, and emerging food technologies.