Job Summary:
The Assistant R&D Manager at Dairy Queen will be responsible for supporting the Research & Development department in creating, testing, and optimizing new products, flavors, and formulations. This role will work closely with cross-functional teams including marketing, operations, training and quality assurance to ensure that new products meet the brand's standards and consumer expectations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, product development, and project management.
Main Responsibilities:
- Generate new innovative products for supporting Marketing activities by providing specification charts and operation procedures.
- Lead the ideation, development, and refinement of new products and flavors for the Dairy Queen menu, focusing on innovation and consumer trends.
- Ensure all products comply with relevant food safety regulations and company standards.
- Manage multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring timely execution and communication with relevant stakeholders.
- Conduct sensory evaluations, shelf-life testing, and other necessary tests to validate the quality and performance of new products.
- Leverage consumer research and feedback to guide product development and enhance existing offerings.
- Engage with suppliers to source new ingredients and materials that align with product development goals.
- Coordinate with the Supply Chain Department for new ingredients & small ware specifications that relate to new product launches.
- Coordinate with the R&M Department for required equipment setting or new small ware specifications that relate to new product launches.
- Coordinate with the Training Department to develop an appropriate manual & training that relates to new product launches.
- Provide the initial COG of the new product.
- Provide new product information for Marketing & Agency.
- Seek and track for new ingredients or new ideas in the marketplace.
- Survey and track Competitor activities.
- Co-operate with Marketing for customer surveys and new product feedback.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree or above in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, Agro-Industry or related field.
- A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in Research and Developing new products for the food Services, hotel, or retail industry would be an advantage, preferably with a focus on dairy or frozen desserts.
- Innovative thinker with a passion for developing new products that align with consumer trends and brand identity and able to apply them to mass production.
- Experience with sensory evaluation and product testing is essential.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and data analysis skills. Ability to interpret complex data to make informed decisions.
- Be self-motivated, a strong team player and enable to work under pressure.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate with various departments.
