Are you a passionate leader in R&D with a background in FMCG and Food Science? This is an exciting opportunity to join a global leader in sustainable pet care solutions and spearhead innovation and growth across an expanding product portfolio.
About the Company
A trusted name in the pet care industry, this organisation is renowned for its sustainable, natural, and effective products, including pet food, pet treats, cat litter, bedding, and bird food. Their commitment to pets and the environment drives ongoing investment in research and development, resulting in products that are loved by customers in over 20 countries worldwide.
Recent acquisitions and transformative growth have positioned the business for an exciting future. This role offers the opportunity to lead a talented team and work across multiple stakeholders to shape the next generation of sustainable pet care products.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Technical, you’ll manage a skilled R&D team to deliver best-in-class solutions across various pet care categories. Collaborating with stakeholders from marketing, sales, and operations, you’ll oversee the entire R&D process—from ideation to commercialisation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Inspire, mentor, and grow a team of talented R&D professionals across multiple sites.
- Drive and manage a robust stage-gate R&D process to deliver high-quality products on time and within budget.
- Lead trials, develop formulations, and apply scientific methods to ensure commercial viability and compliance.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external customers to align R&D efforts with business goals.
- Promote a culture of safety and quality-first, ensuring all products meet regulatory and ethical standards.
About You
To succeed in this role, you’ll be a natural leader with a genuine interest in food (and pets!). Your coaching mindset and ability to foster collaboration will create a high-performing, positive team environment.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
- Tertiary qualification in Food Science or a related field.
- R&D experience in an FMCG manufacturing environment.
- Leadership skills - experience building and mentoring high-performing teams.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance technical and business objectives.
- Experience in product formulation, trials, and the full R&D lifecycle.
What’s on Offer:
- A collaborative, supportive team culture where autonomy and trust are valued.
- Opportunities for career progression within a fast-growing, innovative business.
- Generous salary package with annual bonus potential and salary reviews.
- A chance to shape sustainable pet care products loved by customers worldwide.
Location & Travel
Based in Helensvale, QLD, you’ll manage local operations while supporting teams based interstate. The role involves some travel when required.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to join a company committed to revolutionising pet care sustainably. If you’re ready to make an impact through technical innovation and leadership apply today.
Please apply by upload your current resume in Microsoft Word format only (.doc or .docx). If you would like to have a confidential discussion, please contact George Hall on +61 0468341514, quoting reference JN -012025-39163. Want to know more about Davidson? Visit us at www.davidsonwp.com
