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Director R&D, Lifestyle Nutrition

5+ years
Not Disclosed
10 March 3, 2025
Job Description
Job Type: Full Time Education: B.E/B.Tech/B.Sc./M.Sc./B.Pharm/M.Pharm/Life science Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

Director R&D, Lifestyle Nutrition

Job ID: R-00247
Category: Research & Development
Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Date Posted: 02/24/2025

Job Title: Director R&D, Lifestyle Nutrition
Reports To: VP R&D Beverages & HUL Foods
Geographic Scope: India (75%), Global (25%)
Location: Unilever R&D Bangalore, India

Business Context:

Unilever Foods is a €13+ billion business, representing 22% of Unilever’s total operations. With 54% of business in emerging markets, including India, China, Mexico, and Brazil, Unilever Foods focuses on condiments, cooking aids, mini-meals, and food solutions. The India-focused market is a key growth driver, with HUL holding a No.1 position in tea, lifestyle nutrition, and ketchup brands.

Lifestyle Nutrition includes Horlicks, Boost, and Plus brands, with India serving as a global hub for this segment. The R&D team for Lifestyle Nutrition is central to India’s food strategy, leading product innovation, strategic partnerships, and execution.

Job Purpose:

The Director R&D, Lifestyle Nutrition will lead R&D operations for the Lifestyle Nutrition business, managing a team of 25-30 members. This role is responsible for:

  • Category innovation and technology development for Lifestyle Nutrition.
  • Strategic partnerships within Unilever R&D and external ecosystems.
  • Building a future-proof portfolio through technology pipelines and product development.
  • Global Design for Horlicks, ensuring a healthier product range aligned with sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Deliver superior products to drive sales and volume growth.
  • Develop a technology-led innovation pipeline through collaboration with R&D, business units, and global teams.
  • Build and leverage partnerships for next-generation nutrition solutions.
  • Execute a 3-year cost efficiency program while maintaining product quality.
  • Lead sustainability initiatives for plastic reduction, carbon footprint minimization, and GHG reduction.
  • Integrate digital and AI-driven solutions for product, packaging, and claims design.
  • Enhance career development, leadership training, and succession planning for future R&D leaders.
  • Ensure compliance with Unilever’s business principles, safety, and quality standards.

Key Requirements:

  • Degree in Nutrition Science, Biosciences, Engineering, Chemistry, or related fields.
  • 15+ years of FMCG experience, with a preference for expertise in the Foods category.
  • Proven experience leading R&D teams and cross-functional leadership groups.
  • 5+ years of experience managing large R&D teams and talent development.
  • Strong expertise in innovation processes and portfolio management.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with an ability to drive innovation with limited resources.
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver strategic vision, manage risk, and lead change.
  • Passion for high performance, creativity, and team-building.

Unilever's Commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

Unilever fosters an inclusive environment and provides equal opportunities for all applicants, ensuring fair consideration regardless of background.