Senior Research & Development Manager

Responsibilities

• Lead local beverage innovation and product development from concept to commercial launch
• Develop new beverage recipes, flavor combinations, and ingredients based on local consumer preferences
• Translate consumer insights and cultural trends into relevant beverage concepts
• Adapt and localize global Starbucks beverage concepts
• Lead ideation sessions, prototyping, trials, and sensory evaluations
• Manage the end-to-end R&D process, including recipe development, optimization, and documentation
• Ensure products meet Starbucks brand standards, food safety, and local regulatory requirements
• Partner with suppliers to identify suitable ingredients and product solutions
• Manage product costing to ensure commercially viable recipes within target margins
• Collaborate with Operations to ensure recipes are practical and scalable in stores

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Beverage Technology, or Food & Beverage Management
• 7–10+ years of experience in Beverage R&D, Product Innovation, or Menu Development
• Experience within QSR, cafés, coffee chains, casual dining, FMCG, or retail F&B
• Proven track record of taking products from concept through to commercial launch
• Strong technical understanding of beverage formulation and sensory characteristics

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing products specifically for local or regional markets
• Experience working directly with suppliers and ingredient partners