R&D MANAGER – ICE CREAM PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Sanset Gıda A.Ş. is looking for an experienced R&D Manager to join our team at our Kırklareli Factory and lead our ice cream product development, recipe optimization, and R&D processes. The successful candidate is expected to have strong technical expertise in ice cream technology , extensive experience in new product development , and proven leadership capabilities to manage and develop an R&D team. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Lead new product development and product improvement projects, primarily focusing on ice cream products . Technically evaluate new product requests received from customers and commercial teams and manage the related R&D activities. Develop new recipes and update and optimize existing formulations. Ensure products are developed and optimized in terms of taste, texture, stability, shelf life, cost, and manufacturability . Research alternative raw materials, evaluate their impact on product performance, and conduct suitability and validation studies. Plan and coordinate pilot trials, test productions, and industrial-scale production trials. Lead the transition of new products from laboratory development to industrial-scale production. Ensure the preparation, implementation, and maintenance of product specifications, formulations, technical documents, and R&D records. Develop R&D projects aimed at improving quality, reducing costs, and increasing production efficiency of existing products. Work closely with Production, Quality, Procurement, Planning, and Sales teams. Provide R&D expertise and technical support in resolving product- and process-related issues encountered during production. Monitor consumer trends, emerging technologies, and new product developments within the food industry and generate innovative product concepts. Technically manage Private Label product development projects tailored to customer requirements. Establish project timelines, monitor project deliverables, and report progress and results to senior management. Develop the R&D team's work plan, assign responsibilities, and support the professional development of team members. Identify the R&D laboratory's equipment, investment, infrastructure, and technical requirements. Ensure that product development processes comply with food legislation, product safety requirements, and company quality standards . Contribute to product cost optimization and formulation cost-reduction initiatives. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Food Engineering , Food Science, or a related discipline. At least 10 years of experience in R&D / Product Development within the ice cream, dairy, frozen food, or similar food categories. Strong hands-on experience in ice cream product development and recipe formulation/optimization . Proven experience managing new product development projects from laboratory trials through to industrial-scale production. Advanced technical knowledge of ice cream formulations, raw material functionality, stabilizer/emulsifier systems, and processing technologies . Experience in product costing, formulation optimization, and cost reduction. Proven experience in R&D team management and project leadership . Advanced level of English proficiency . Good knowledge of food legislation and product development processes. Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Results-oriented, innovative, curious, and research-driven mindset. Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across different functions. Private Label product development experience , particularly with national and/or international retail customers, is highly preferred. WHAT WE OFFER A strategic R&D leadership role where you can lead new product development initiatives within the ice cream category . The opportunity to manage the complete product development journey, from initial concept and formulation to industrial-scale production . The opportunity to lead an experienced R&D team and contribute to its professional development. Direct responsibility for product innovation and formulation optimization . The opportunity to work closely with Production, Quality, Procurement, Planning, and Commercial teams. An active role in bringing new product projects from concept to market. LOCATION Kırklareli, Türkiye POSITION R&D Manager – Ice Cream Product Development When applying, please highlight your experience in ice cream product development, recipe formulation and optimization, and the R&D projects you have led .