Job Title

OverviewWe are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Product Development & Innovation in Saudi Arabia. This senior role offers the opportunity to drive strategic and operational initiatives across product and packaging development, delivering innovative, consumer-focused solutions. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in food industry innovation, portfolio management, and cross-functional leadership, with a passion for creating products that combine market impact, operational efficiency, and sustainability.ResponsibilitiesDirect cross-functional teams (Marketing, Quality, Manufacturing) to execute new product development (NPD) and packaging projects.Oversee R&D across the BU, ensuring quality outcomes from concept to commercialisation. Align packaging innovation with business goals.Manage the end-to-end innovation pipeline, launching consumer-focused products and packaging for competitive advantage.Renovate core product lines and packaging to enhance market position, consumer value, operational efficiency, cost savings, and sustainability.Implement agile NPD and packaging processes, mitigating technical and supply risks in collaboration with Procurement and Quality.Lead sensory evaluation initiatives to optimise product excellence and consumer satisfaction.Provide technical guidance to manufacturing and collaborate with suppliers, academic institutions, and research bodies. Protect IP and product design assets.Manage product and packaging R&D budget for cost efficiency and high standards.Drive sustainable innovation aligned with corporate environmental goals.QualificationsMSc and PhD in Food Science & TechnologyCertification in Product Development (Certified Organisation)HACCP and ISO 9001:2000 qualifications15+ years in senior food industry roles, with multi-category and multinational experienceExtensive experience in Innovation and Portfolio ManagementAbout RWM GroupRWM Group is an Australian owned specialist recruitment and workforce management company with bothlocal and international talent solutions. RWM Group is part of PeopleIN, the largest ASX-listed talent solutions company in Australia andNew Zealand.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all applications are treated with complete confidentiality. We thank you for your application, however, due to the volume of applicants only successful applicants will be contacted. A full list of all vacancies within RWM Group can be found on our website#J-18808-Ljbffr