R&D Team Leader

About the role

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary R&D team that creates innovative, best‑tasting confectionery products while ensuring full compliance with UK MHRA, food and EU supplement regulations. This is a hands‑on leadership position that balances technical delivery with people development.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop scientists, technologists and admin staff, driving performance and fostering a collaborative culture.
• Oversee product and process development projects from concept to launch, providing technical guidance and ensuring milestones are met.
• Conduct root‑cause analysis and resolve technical issues efficiently.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain and Finance, communicating status, risks and recommendations.
• Analyse and communicate technical and regulatory risks, supporting informed decision‑making.
• Ensure all R&D activities comply with MHRA, UK food and EU supplement regulations and uphold health, safety and quality policies.
• Stay up‑to‑date with nutritional, regulatory and licensed‑medicine developments.

Required profile

• Strong people‑management experience in a technical, scientific or regulated environment.
• Proven track record of delivering product or process development projects.
• Ability to prioritize resources, manage workload and drive performance.
• Experience working within regulated frameworks (MHRA, UK food, EU supplement).

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary between £45,000 and £50,000 per year.
• Opportunity to lead a high‑performing R&D team within a growing confectionery business.