Head of Research & Innovation (R&I)

About The Job

We are looking for an experienced R&I leader who will be responsible for turning science, technology and consumer insights into business growth by building and delivering a strong, relevant and scalable innovation funnel / pipeline.

In this role, you will ensure the implementation of the R&I strategy and drive high-quality execution to support business unit growth. You will be responsible for both the short-term and long-term innovation funnel, supporting sales growth, margin improvement and competitiveness.

This role goes beyond generating ideas. It requires the ability to transform consumer needs, market trends, science and technology into relevant business solutions that can work in real market conditions.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure the implementation of the R&I strategy and achievement of innovation KPIs.
• Build and deliver a strong short-term and long-term innovation funnel.
• Drive sales growth, margin and competitiveness through innovations, renovations and productivity initiatives.
• Ensure product superiority in taste, nutritional value and consumer experience in accordance with Danone standards and local governance.
• Put the consumer at the center of decision-making and strategy building, ensuring a consumer-centric and insight-led approach.
• Manage renovation projects to strengthen product superiority and productivity.
• Translate global R&I recommendations into pragmatic local solutions, balancing the needs of the local business unit with the MCO vision and direction.
• Work effectively in complex market conditions, including the war context, cost pressure, BCP needs, production constraints, volatility and high mental pressure.
• Support future business development through the adaptation of technologies to market trends and business reality.
• Act as a key equipment expert for the factory master plan and CAPEX activities.
• Turn the supplier network into a business advantage through managing idea generation, practical solutions and cost balance.
• Ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements, food safety and quality standards.
• Manage the R&I budget.
• Build, lead and develop a high-performing R&I team.

About You

You are an experienced R&I / R&D leader with strong FMCG background, preferably in dairy, and a proven track record of successful product launches, portfolio management and innovation delivery in a complex business environment.

You combine consumer understanding, science, technology and business pragmatism. You are able to think beyond product only, including renovations, formats, cost optimization, value engineering and product performance on shelf.

Your experience

• Strong experience in R&I / R&D within FMCG, preferably in dairy.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in R&I, preferably in a similar leadership role.
• Minimum 3 years of experience as a CODI / Board member.
• Proven track record of successful product launches and portfolio management.
• Experience in cross-functional and matrix environment at senior level.
• Experience in complex, unstable or high-pressure markets will be a strong advantage.
• Fluent English.

Your key competencies

• Business & Strategy understanding of category dynamics, P&L logic and margin drivers; ability to translate strategy into clear priorities and an actionable innovation pipeline.
• Execution Discipline strong focus on delivery, ownership and accountability; ability to achieve results under pressure and ensure on-time, first-time-right execution.
• Leadership ability to lead by example, build ownership culture, develop high-performing teams, challenge stakeholders and make decisions.
• Innovation Mindset ability to combine consumer understanding, science and pragmatism, think beyond product and focus on what will work on shelf for the business, customers and consumers.

About Us

• Work with tasty brands and high-quality products that bring health benefits;
• Hybrid work format;
• Official employment and medical insurance;
• Support in implementing new projects and ideas, openness in communication;
• Cooperation with an expert and strong team of like-minded people;
• Dynamics that provide the opportunity to grow very quickly;
• Opportunities for an international career;
• Well-developed cross-functional work.

Danone is a global company with an inspiring mission “Bringing health through food to as many people as possible.” We are proud to be leaders in the segment of fresh dairy products, plant-based products and specialized nutrition products. With us, you can develop and learn in a diverse and dynamic environment.