Product Design & Development Manager, Utrecht, Utrecht

The Company
A global leader in nutritional innovation, the organization translates advanced science and technology into products that support health and well-being. It operates in a collaborative, international environment with a strong focus on quality and sustainability.

Role Description
As a Product Design & Development Manager, you are responsible for leading the development and optimization of nutritional products for the Chinese market, with full ownership of the end-to-end process from formulation through registration. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams across Europe and China to deliver innovative, high-quality products that meet both regulatory standards and consumer expectations.

Responsibilities
- Act as a key partner to the China Commercial Business Units (CBUs), collaborating with R&D, regulatory, marketing, operations, and quality teams to drive the innovation pipeline and secure product registrations in China.
- Lead the technical aspects of formulating innovative nutritional infant formulas and FSMP products, ensuring they comply with Chinese legislation and internal quality standards.
- Oversee formulation design and development, ensuring robust processes, risk mitigation, and compliance with governance standards throughout the product lifecycle.
- Support technical execution of innovation projects, including dossier preparation and feedback for Chinese registration.
- Work closely with supply points, pilot plants, and advanced teams on testing, trials, and final product alignments.
- Ensure the seamless transfer of compliant, high-quality products to European factories for manufacturing and support registration and commercialization activities.
- Anticipate potential risks and challenges, proposing proactive solutions to ensure smooth product launches.
- Build expertise within the product category covering technical, quality, consumer experience, and market landscape insights.

Requirements
- Proven experience in product formulation, development, and registration within the nutritional or FMCG sector.
- Strong understanding of Chinese food legislation and regulatory processes.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and projects internationally.
- Technical expertise in infant formulas, FSMP products, or similar categories.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and proactive mindset for identifying risks and solutions.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across cultural and organizational boundaries.

Other Information
If you are interested and want to apply, please submit your application via the apply button below and contact me.

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