Jungbunzlauer · Ladenburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany · Query: Leiter Produktentwicklung
Job Description
We are looking for a Manager Application Development (m/f/d) - Food to lead our Ladenburg-based team of six scientists and technicians. In this role, you will translate application strategy and market needs into focused team priorities, innovative concepts and robust customer solutions. You will combine people leadership with strong technical understanding and practical industrial experience across food and beverage applications.
The position offers the opportunity to shape application capabilities, guide development projects and work closely with Product Management, Market Development, Sales, Product and Process Development, Quality and Regulatory teams.
Responsibilities
Team leadership and organisation
- Lead, coach and develop a team of six scientists and technicians, setting clear timelines, priorities and responsibilities
- Translate project objectives into practical team and project goals and ensure effective daily execution
- Plan team resources and laboratory activities in coordination with the Application Development Director and relevant project owners
- Create a collaborative, curious and accountable working environment and act as the first escalation point for the team
Food and beverage application development
- Lead the development and optimisation of food and beverage applications using Jungbunzlauer ingredients and ingredient systems
- Guide the design, execution and interpretation of laboratory and application trials, ensuring sound methods, reliable data and clear documentation
- Identify and develop new application concepts, product uses and system solutions based on customer needs, market trends and scientific understanding
- Build and maintain strong knowledge of ingredient functionality, interactions and performance in finished food and beverage systems
Projects, customers and collaboration
- Lead or contribute to application projects from scoping and experimental planning through validation, recommendation and technical transfer
- Support selected customer projects, technical troubleshooting and co-development activities in cooperation with Market Development and Sales
- Communicate project progress, technical conclusions, risks and recommendations clearly to internal and external stakeholders
- Coordinate effectively with other application development and R&D teams , Product Management, Quality, Regulatory Affairs
Operational excellence and continuous improvement
- Ensure safe, efficient and well-documented laboratory operations in line with internal standards
- Improve application methods, workflows, tools and knowledge-sharing practices within the team
- Keep abreast of food and beverage trends, customer needs, emerging technologies and relevant scientific developments
- Encourage hands-on problem solving and implement practical improvements in the team’s area of responsibility
Qualifications
Education and experience
- Master’s degree or PhD in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related discipline
- At least five years of hands-on industrial experience in the ingredients industry, with a strong focus on food and beverage applications
- Strong knowledge of ingredient functionality and food or beverage systems; understanding of nutritional science is an advantage
- Experience leading people, coordinating laboratory activities or managing multidisciplinary application projects
- Practical experience in experimental design, formulation, application testing, data interpretation and technical documentation
Skills And Working Style
- Structured and well organised, with the ability to manage priorities, resources and project milestones
- Curious and scientifically rigorous, with a hands-on approach to technical problem solving
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to adapt technical messages to different audiences
- Sound project-management skills and the ability to coordinate cross-functional contributors
- Collaborative leadership style and commitment to developing people and sharing knowledge
- Fluent spoken and written English; German is an advantage
About Us
Be part of a team that drives innovation and sustainability.
At Jungbunzlauer, we create high-quality, naturally derived ingredients that enhance everyday life – from food and beverage to nutrition, health, and home and personal care. As a trusted partner for ingredient excellence, we offer texturants, acidulants, minerals, and tailored solutions that help customers to solve complex product challenges.
With a history of more than 150 years, nearly 1,400 passionate colleagues, and production and fermentation facilities across Europe and North America, we proudly serve over 130 countries worldwide. Join our global network and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future while growing your career in a dynamic, collaborative environment.