What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Research and Development beverage manufacturing position at Smartfruit?
Director / Head of Research & Development
3V Company/Smartfruit
About the Role
3V and Smartfruit are established manufacturers and distributors of fruit based beverage concentrates redefining what real fruit beverages should be. We are seeking a Director / Head of R&D to lead innovation, product development, and formulation strategy across our clean-label beverage portfolio.
This role is ideal for a hands-on leader who combines deep technical expertise with creative thinking and a passion for building differentiated, better-for-you products. You will play a key role in shaping the future of our product line, from concept to commercialization.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of R&D strategy aligned with company growth goals
- Drive innovation across new product development, reformulations, and line extensions
- Develop unique, differentiated beverage concepts using natural, clean-label ingredients
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Sales, Production, QC, and Supply Chain
- Partner with customers and suppliers to bring custom product opportunities to life
- Oversee formulation, testing, and commercialization of new products
- Ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and industry standards
- Develop and maintain product specifications, documentation, and labeling accuracy
- Identify opportunities to improve ingredient sourcing, cost efficiency, and production processes
- Stay ahead of industry trends, emerging ingredients, and new technologies
- Manage and prioritize a fast-paced R&D pipeline with multiple concurrent projects
- Mentor and develop R&D team members, strengthening both technical and leadership capabilities
Qualifications
- 10 years of R&D experience in the food and beverage industry
- Strong focus and proven experience in beverage development
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field (minimum)
- Deep understanding of natural ingredients, especially fruit- and plant-based systems
- Strong experience and understanding of flavors and their application in developing unique, signature flavor profiles
- Solid knowledge of food science, ingredient functionality, and formulation systems
- Experience with regulatory requirements and FDA compliance especially in the area of juices and fruit concentrates
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work across teams and with external partners
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through
- Passion for innovation and creating unique, high-quality products
- Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment
- Must be authorized to work in the United States
What We’re Looking For
- A builder who enjoys creating from scratch and pushing boundaries
- Someone who balances creativity with execution
- A leader who can inspire a team while staying deeply involved in product development
- A problem-solver who can navigate both technical and business challenges
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package
- 401k plan with company match
- Opportunity to lead innovation at a fast-growing brand
- Collaborative, entrepreneurial work environment
Pay: $125,000.00 - $175,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
Salary : $125,000 - $175,000