Head of Research And Development

Role Content :

As a key member of the India Steering Team, the Head of R&D – India / MENA will lead the R&D innovation strategy for the regions, driving development and implementation of strategic initiatives, innovation solutions to achieve business growth and financial targets; oversee the innovation pipeline, ensuring products meet market demands, cost targets, regulatory requirements, and emerging consumer needs. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of innovation in Richs India / MENA regions, ensuring alignment with global standards while catering to local consumer needs. The role is pivotal in coaching and developing team members to elevate innovation maturity. This incumbent will play a pivot role in the global innovation leadership team, serving as a thought leader and functional expert who demonstrates a ‘think global, act local’ mindset, driving both enterprise-level functional priorities while delivering results for the India / MENA BU.

This role requires cross-functional collaboration with multiple internal and external business stakeholders. A strong balance of people leadership, project management ability, communication skills, analytical thinking, and creative problem solving with the ability to influence and introduce innovative and impactful innovation programs is essential in the role.

Key Responsibilities :

Strategic Leadership & innovation

• Partner with BU leader to define and execute the long-term R&D strategy in alignment with business growth plans.
• Champion innovation across categories.
• Lead strategic initiatives such as new product development, formula upgradation, compliance & regulatory and sustainability.
• Act as liaison with various functions to ensure interdependent coordination and to sustain effective support for strategic plans / direction and key innovation program; collecting and updating information sources / database.

Product Development & Commercialization

Compliance and Regulatory

Risk and IP Management

Global & cross- function collaboration

Innovation Support & People Leadership

Ideal Candidate :