Manager- New Product Development (Food) International Business

Job Description

We are hiring a Senior Manager/Manager New Product Development for our International Business at Vadilal Industries Ltd., based at our Corporate Office in Ahmedabad. Job Description: Position: Senior Manager/Manager- New Product Development Department: International Business Location: Ahmedabad- Corporate Office Bond: 3 Years Job Summary: The person for New Product Development (NPD) in the Food/Dairy processing sector, specializing in Food/Dairy technology, will play a role in driving innovation, product design, and NPD lifecycle for dairy & Food based products. This role also requires substantial experience in managing third-party operations, vendor development, and supplier relationships to ensure that product development and production align with operational standards, cost targets, and quality control requirements. Role & Responsibilities Manage New Product Development (NPD), Procurement, Vendor Development, and Contract Management for International Business projects. Align procurement and NPD strategies with market priorities, ensuring cost control and quality compliance. Develop and implement strategic procurement processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Identify and sustain niche product categories with key differentiators for international markets. Lead techno-commercial negotiations with vendors to optimize sourcing in terms of cost, quality, and service. Monitor performance metrics, drive cost efficiencies, and explore innovative cost-reduction strategies. Conduct third-party facility assessments, provide technical support, and oversee operations, including ordering and inventory control. Ensure timely order fulfillment by coordinating supplier operations and backward integration. Identify, source, and manage R&D for ingredients to enhance formulations and develop new products. Scale up manufacturing operations to support business growth. Oversee product development, including formulation, pilot trials, sensory evaluation, and R&D documentation. Manage demand forecasting, yield analysis, and cost review for international business. Improve the bottom line through mechanization, procurement efficiency, and operational streamlining. Conduct and support value-added audits for third-party manufacturers, ensuring compliance and corrective actions. Ensure regulatory compliance with export country requirements. Support third-party operations and QA in resolving issues related to ingredients, formulations, labeling, and processes. Manage product specifications, technical documentation, and regulatory audits. Optimize formulations, develop alternative vendors, and address bottlenecks for efficient sourcing. Ensure commercial agreements with third-party manufacturers are in place and adhered to. Qualifications B.Tech/M.Tech in Food or Dairy Technology with 15+ years of experience in product/process development. Desired Skills & Expertise Expertise in ingredient research, product formulation, specifications, and commercialization. Strong techno-commercial acumen to optimize procurement and operational spending. Deep understanding of food & dairy processing technology and emerging industry trends. Regulatory expertise in food safety laws, HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000 compliance. Experience with external/third-party audits, testing, inspection, and certification requirements. Strong networking and analytical skills and a team-oriented approach. Candidates with a B.Tech/M.Tech in Food or Dairy Technology and relevant experience should apply at vqthr@vadilalgroup.com.