Position Summary:The
Senior Manager R&D Lead drives innovation for a strategic Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements (VMS) brand, driving growth, product differentiation, and competitive advantage. This role partners closely with the business to identify and execute R&D priorities, leveraging emerging science, technology, and clinical insights to deliver consumer-focused innovation and support long-term brand success. This position is based in Bridgewater, NJ and requires in office presence weekly.
Responsibilities:- R&D representative for the corresponding VMS brand, aligning business needs with R&D opportunities
- Co-leads the definition of the Innovation & Renovation (I&R) pipeline for the corresponding VMS brand, developing short, mid and long-term plans to support future innovation with new concepts and technologies
- Provides technical expertise on future product development, including new ingredients, products, and processes, and translates science and technology solutions into commercially viable pipeline opportunities
- Oversees the strategic VMS project portfolio and partners cross-functionally with Product Development and Project Management teams to ensure innovation launches are delivered on time and within budget
- Builds and manages strategic partnerships across the Nestlé R&D network, suppliers, and key external stakeholders to advance brand innovation
- Strengthens organizational capabilities aligned with R&D and business priorities, while developing talent, succession pipelines, and knowledge transfer plans to ensure long-term team effectiveness
- Creates synergies through effective networking with all relevant R&D Units, business partners, markets, and external partners
- Comply with Nestlé Integrated Management Systems and all company policies and procedures
Requirements:- Master's degree in Nutrition, Food Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline required, Ph.D. preferred
- 10+ years of R&D experience with a track record of leading innovation and managing technical knowledge within operational environments
- Proven leadership skills in working with global business and markets' stakeholders to influence strategic business objectives through R&D innovation
- Deep understanding of the VMS industry, competitive landscape, and evolving consumer insights
- Growth-oriented mindset with enthusiasm for leveraging digital tools and technologies
- Collaborative team player with the ability to navigate cross-functional and matrixed environments
- Effective communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence diverse audiences
- Demonstrates strong integrity, accountability, and professional ethics
Skills:- Communicates complex scientific concepts clearly to drive informed decision-making
- Passionate about developing talent, advancing consumer-centric innovation, and creating positive community impact
- Promotes a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing
- Demonstrates an entrepreneurial mindset with sound judgment and thoughtful risk management
- Builds cross-functional partnerships to accelerate collaboration and business performance
- Navigates diverse cultural, regulatory, and compliance environments with agility
- Cultivates strategic external relationships to advance innovation and business objectives
Salary: $183,574.00 to $228,278.00 per year
Bonus Eligibility: Yes
The pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at top of range.
Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Incentives and/or benefit packages may vary depending on the position. Learn more at https://www.nestlejobs.com/nestle-in-the-us-benefits
