Head of Research And Development

Company Description Laxmi Snacks Pvt Ltd, the company behind the Real Namkeen brand (www.realnamkeen.com), is a growing snacks manufacturer focused on delivering high-quality, flavorful products to a wide consumer base. The organization combines traditional recipes with modern production practices to create a diverse range of packaged snacks. With an emphasis on consistent taste, quality, and hygiene, Laxmi Snacks aims to strengthen its presence in the competitive FMCG market. The company values innovation in product development and process improvement, offering professionals the opportunity to shape new snack concepts and solutions.
Role Description The Head of Research and Development is a full-time, on-site role based in Nadiad, responsible for leading the R&D function for new and existing snack products. This role involves overseeing end-to-end product development, from concept generation and ingredient selection to formulation, testing, and scale-up for commercial production. The Head of R&D will design and manage experiments, ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory standards, and refine processes for quality, shelf-life, and cost optimization. Daily tasks include collaborating with production, quality, marketing, and procurement teams; managing R&D projects and timelines; and guiding a multidisciplinary team to deliver innovative, market-ready products. The role also requires monitoring consumer trends, identifying opportunities for product improvement, and building a culture of continuous innovation within the R&D department.
Qualifications

• Strong Analytical Skills to interpret data, evaluate formulations, and support evidence-based decision-making.
• Demonstrated expertise in Research and Development (R&D), including food product formulation, testing, and commercialization.
• Proficiency in Research methodologies, experimental design, and documentation of results for product and process improvement.
• Proven Team Management capabilities to lead, mentor, and develop R&D staff across multiple projects.
• Solid Project Management skills to plan, prioritize, and deliver R&D initiatives within defined timelines and budgets.
• Educational background in Food Technology, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related discipline (master’s degree preferred).
• Experience in the snacks, FMCG, or food manufacturing industry, with familiarity in regulatory and quality standards (e.g., FSSAI, HACCP).
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work closely with cross-functional teams and present technical information clearly.
• Ability to operate on-site in Nadiad and engage directly with production and quality teams to support trials and implementation.
• Innovative mindset, problem-solving ability, and a track record of launching successful food products or process enhancements.