About the Role
CHI Limited, Nigeria's undisputed market leader in fruit juices, dairy, and snacks with powerhouse brands like Chivita and Hollandia, is seeking a dynamic Research & Development Manager. In this pivotal role, you will lead new product development, innovation, reformulation, and process optimization to support continuous business growth and product excellence.
Key Responsibilities- Lead end-to-end new product development from concept generation, formulation, prototyping, and sensory evaluation to pilot trials and factory scale-up.
- Drive product reformulation and cost optimization initiatives to enhance quality, stability, and nutritional value while achieving key savings.
- Develop and optimize manufacturing processes, establishing validated operating parameters in collaboration with Process Engineering.
- Maintain accurate technical documentation, bills of materials, and dossiers while partnering with Regulatory Affairs for NAFDAC and SON compliance.
- Evaluate and qualify new ingredients and raw materials, supporting Procurement with local sourcing alternatives.
- Oversee sensory evaluation programs, shelf-life studies, and ensure strict compliance with HACCP, GMP, and ISO 22000 standards.
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related discipline; a postgraduate degree is an advantage.
- 5 to 7 years of relevant R&D, product development, or process optimization experience within the food, beverage, or FMCG industry.
- Strong technical knowledge of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, sensory science, and product stability.
- Familiarity with Nigerian regulatory requirements, including NAFDAC, SON, and FCCPC standards.
- Excellent project management, problem-solving, stakeholder collaboration, and team leadership capabilities.
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive health insurance and wellness coverage.
- Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a market-leading FMCG company.