Savola Group is seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead research and development operations across UAE, contribute to R&D section budget preparation, supervise day-to-day operations ensuring compliance with established policies, organize and supervise activities of R&D team, lead continuous improvement programs including 5S and Lean manufacturing, initiate new product development (NPD), and maintain food safety and hygiene standards per laws and regulations.
Application Deadline – URGENT
Apply Before: April 15, 2026 (02:00 AM)
Posted: March 25, 2026 (06:53 PM)
Job ID: 11069
Limited time remaining — apply immediately!
Join Savola Group – Leading Food & FMCG Company
Savola Group is major food and FMCG company with operations across Middle East and beyond
Lead R&D initiatives for established company with strong market presence
Opportunity to shape product development and innovation strategies
Work with international best practices and advanced R&D methodologies
Position Overview
This R&D Manager role involves leading research and development operations at Savola Group across UAE. You will contribute to budget preparation, supervise day-to-day R&D operations, organize team activities, lead continuous improvement programs, initiate new product development, improve existing products, maintain documentation, ensure food safety compliance, and report on KPI performance while driving innovation and operational excellence.
💡 Why This Role Matters: As R&D Manager at Savola Group, you lead innovation driving company’s product development strategy, manage R&D operations for established food and FMCG leader, implement continuous improvement programs optimizing productivity and costs, ensure compliance with food safety regulations protecting consumers, and advance career in senior R&D leadership role with international company offering professional development.
Key Responsibilities
Budget Management & Financial Oversight
- Contribute to preparation of R&D section budget
- Monitor financial performance versus budget
- Ensure business awareness of anticipated costs/revenues
- Identify areas of unsatisfactory financial performance
Operations Management & Supervision
- Supervise day-to-day operations of R&D ensuring work processes implemented as designed
- Ensure compliance with established policies, processes and procedures
- Implement approved departmental policies, processes, procedures and instructions
- Monitor adherence to work standards and quality requirements
Team Leadership & Development
- Organize and supervise activities and work of R&D team
- Ensure all work within R&D activity carried out efficiently and compliantly
- Provide leadership and guidance to subordinates
- Monitor team performance and provide development opportunities
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
- Lead Continuous Improvement Program within company: 5S, Lean manufacturing
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement of systems, processes and practices
- Consider international best practice for business process improvement
- Drive cost reduction and productivity improvement initiatives
Product Development & Innovation
- Initiate and actively involve in new product development (NPD)
- Lead continuous improvement of existing products (EPD) in relation to Marketing and Purchasing
- Update and maintain product documentation: specifications for raw materials, packaging, recipes
- Follow-up new launched products for at least six months after launch
Quality & Compliance Management
- Assist in maintenance of Food Safety and Hygiene Standards per laws and regulations
- Ensure compliance of rules & regulations for import, export, and local sales
- Ensure respect of working and SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, Quality) policy
- Monitor adherence to safety and environmental management procedures
Analysis & Reporting
- Observe, analyze and report to gain knowledge of competitors’ products
- Report on KPI performance and propose actions to improve results
- Prepare reports timely and accurately meeting Savola and R&D department requirements
- Maintain relationships with authorities, customers, and suppliers when required
Educational Requirements
- BSc or MSc in Food Technology
- OR BSc/MSc in Nutrition
- OR BSc/MSc in Microbiology
- OR BSc/MSc in Chemistry
- OR related degree in food sciences or related field
Essential Experience & Skills
- Proven R&D management experience in food or FMCG industry
- Budget management and financial oversight experience
- Team leadership and supervision experience
- New product development (NPD) experience
- Continuous improvement and Lean manufacturing knowledge
- Food safety and regulatory compliance expertise
- Strong analytical and reporting skills
- Knowledge of international best practices in R&D
About Savola Group
Savola Group is leading food and FMCG company with strong presence across Middle East region. As R&D Manager, you join established organization committed to innovation, quality, and operational excellence. This role offers opportunity to lead R&D initiatives, implement international best practices, and drive continuous improvement while contributing to product development strategy for major food and consumer goods company.
Who Should Apply?
- Senior R&D Professionals: With management experience in food or FMCG industries
- Food Technology Leaders: With proven track record in NPD and team supervision
- Continuous Improvement Managers: Experienced in Lean manufacturing and 5S implementation
- Food Science Managers: With budget management and regulatory compliance experience
- Innovation Leaders: Passionate about driving product development and operational excellence
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