Senior R&D Manager Patisserie
At Puratos, we create innovative food solutions for the health and well‑being of people everywhere. As the global leader in bakery, patisserie and chocolate ingredients, we help our customers succeed by turning technologies and experiences from food cultures around the world into new opportunities.
We have more than 10,000 employees in over 70 countries and a consolidated turnover of 3.1 billion euros (in 2023). Our passion for innovation, a pioneering spirit and the unique Puratos culture drive our solid growth and vision for the future. This, along with our commitment to our local communities, is what makes working at Puratos magical.
To build our team we are looking for a Senior R&D Manager Patisserie to join our R&D team.
What you will do:
* Lead, mentor and develop a team of 6 R&D professionals, driving performance, collaboration and continuous improvement.
* Contribute to defining the strategic direction of the Patisserie R&D function, including innovation focus areas, product investments and resource allocation.
* Set, track and optimize key R&D KPIs to ensure team effectiveness and project success.
* Drive new product development across key categories (Cream Fillings & Decors, Fruit), managing the full lifecycle from ideation to industrial scale‑up and customer implementation.
* Support and shape the innovation pipeline in close collaboration with R&D leadership.
* Work hands‑on with both laboratory and industrial equipment to transform ideas into scalable solutions.
* Lead product roll‑out projects at customer production sites, ensuring successful implementation and performance.
* Act as a technical point of contact (TPOC) for key accounts, translating complex technical concepts into clear, actionable insights.
* Identify opportunities and mitigate risks within existing partnerships, contributing to business growth.
* Build and share technical expertise in patisserie ingredients and applications, driving knowledge across teams.
* Stay up to date with UK food legislation and ensure compliance and forward‑looking awareness.
* Promote a structured, data‑driven approach to experimentation and discovery within the team.
* Develop and maintain strong networks with customers, industry experts, equipment manufacturers, and internal stakeholders.
* Foster collaboration with global teams and ensure alignment with Business Unit specialists at headquarters.
* Encourage a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing through industry engagement and research partnerships.
Who are we looking for:
* Have at least 5 years of experience managing and leading teams.
* Have at least 10 years of experience in the food industry, particularly in Research or New Product Development.
* Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or an equivalent field.
* Be willing and able to travel within the UK and occasionally abroad (approximately 40%).
* Be proficient in computer use, particularly Microsoft Office Suite and SAP tools.
* Hold a valid driver’s license.
* Hold a Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate.
* Hold a HACCP Level 3 certification.
* Demonstrate curiosity and a continuous drive to explore new ideas and innovative ways to apply existing knowledge.
Benefits:
* Competitive salary.
* Company car or car allowance (£600 per month / £7,200 per year).
* Annual bonus scheme (5%).
* Long Service Awards.
* Private healthcare (single coverage funded by Puratos; family coverage available at employee cost).
* Annual salary review.
* Pension scheme: 3.5% employee / 5% employer or 5% employee / 7.5% employer.
* 25 days of annual leave plus UK bank holidays.
* Life insurance (2x salary) and 20% spouse pension.
* Monthly recognition scheme.
* Access to Perkbox discount platform.
* Learning & Development – Structured programs with a target of 5 learning days per year.
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