Head of Research & Development (R&D) & Technology

We're a leading recruitment company in Sri Lanka and looking for a Head of Research & Development (R&D) & Technology. You will lead both the Quality Assurance and Research & Development departments, fostering a culture of compliance, innovation, and continuous improvement across the food manufacturing organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the development and implementation of quality management systems (QMS) in compliance with international food safety standards (e.g., BRC, ISO 22000, HACCP).

Oversee all product research and development efforts, from concept to commercialization.

Manage quality control processes, including audits, inspections, and testing.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives in product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of QA and R&D professionals.

Collaborate with production, procurement, and marketing teams to support product innovation and optimization.

Ensure regulatory compliance with food safety laws and labeling requirements.

Manage customer audits and respond to quality-related customer inquiries and complaints.

Key Requirements:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.

Minimum of 8 years’ experience in Quality Assurance and/or R&D within the food manufacturing industry, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.

In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, quality systems, and product development processes.

Proven leadership and team management skills.

Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Experience with certifications such as BRC, ISO 22000, or FSSC 22000 is essential.