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- Tasks: Lead R&D activities across EMEA, driving innovation and quality in product development.
- Company: Herbalife is a global leader in nutrition, dedicated to improving lives through science-backed products.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, private medical insurance, and generous product discounts.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven culture focused on global nutrition and professional growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in R&D management, PhD in relevant field, strong project management skills required.
- Other info: Collaborate internationally and engage with academic institutions for innovative solutions.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a strategic and hands-on leader to head our Global Product R&D function in EMEA. As the Senior Director, Global Product R&D – EMEA, you will lead all regional R&D activities and play a key role in shaping our global product development efforts. Reporting directly to the SVP, Global Product R&D, you will ensure that innovation, quality, and operational excellence are consistently delivered across EMEA.
How you would contribute:
- Lead all R&D activities across EMEA, ensuring delivery against innovation, quality, cost, and timeline objectives.
- Oversee global product development efforts within the region, aligning with worldwide strategies and standards.
- Coach and develop a team of regional scientists in R&D and Scientific Affairs to drive technical excellence and collaboration.
- Support Worldwide Operations and contract manufacturing teams to ensure EMEA business objectives are met.
- Manage and optimize R&D processes in the region, ensuring full compliance with global policies.
- Collaborate on project planning and trials with regional contract manufacturers and cross-functional teams (QA, QC, GSS, Supply Chain, etc.).
- Oversee Data Management activities related to tracking and reporting of global project deliverables.
- Represent EMEA within the Global R&D leadership team, sharing best practices and proposing improvements to drive resource efficiency.
- Identify innovation opportunities through engagement with academic institutions, research bodies, and industry partners.
- Travel internationally to support cross-regional collaboration and knowledge sharing.
What you’ll bring to the team:
Experience & Background:
- Minimum 10 years of experience in an R&D management role within the food, supplements, or related industry.
- Strong hands-on experience in product and/or nutrition research and development.
- Proven track record of leading teams and delivering complex projects in a global organization.
- Good knowledge of the EMEA nutrition and science landscape (e.g. CROs, academia, regulatory bodies).
- Familiarity with emerging product-related technologies (e.g. smart wearables, data-driven innovation, AI for product development) is a plus.
- PhD in Food Science, Pharmacy, Nutrition, or another relevant natural science discipline.
Skills & Expertise:
- Strong problem-solving ability with the capacity to operate independently in a dynamic, matrixed environment.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while driving strategic goals.
- Significant experience in project management and cross-functional collaboration.
- Proficiency in PLM systems (e.g. Agile) and advanced Microsoft Office skills.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with fluency in English.
- Culturally aware and able to work effectively across diverse teams and geographies.
What we offer:
- An international, science-driven work environment.
- Competitive salary and annual discretionary bonus.
- Flexible hybrid working model (3 days in the office, 2 days from home).
- Attractive benefits including: Private Medical Insurance, Life Insurance, Eye Care Vouchers, Pension Scheme, and access to Herbalife products.
- Car allowance.
- Up to 50% product discount and unlimited shakes in the office kitchen.
- Opportunities for professional growth via LinkedIn Learning, coaching, and tailored development plans.
- Extra days off for volunteering and charity work.
- Free on-site parking (first come, first served).
- A collaborative, mission-driven culture committed to improving nutrition around the world.
Who we are:
Herbalife is a global company that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a proven business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. With a presence in over 90 countries, we provide high-quality, science-backed products and a community that supports people in achieving healthier, more active lifestyles. Through our global campaign to end hunger, we also support communities with access to nutrition and education.
Senior Director, Global Product R&D – EMEA employer: Herbalife
Contact Detail:
Herbalife Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director, Global Product R&D – EMEA
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the food and nutrition industry, especially those who have experience in R&D roles. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in product development.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific regulatory landscape of the EMEA region. Understanding local regulations and compliance requirements can set you apart as a candidate who is ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past experiences where you successfully led cross-functional teams. Highlight your ability to drive innovation and manage complex projects, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on emerging technologies in the nutrition space, such as AI and smart wearables. Being knowledgeable about these innovations will demonstrate your forward-thinking approach and commitment to enhancing product development.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director, Global Product R&D – EMEA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in R&D management, particularly within the food or supplements industry. Emphasise your leadership roles and any successful projects you've led that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for innovation in nutrition and how your background aligns with Herbalife's mission. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage complex projects.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills in project management, cross-functional collaboration, and proficiency in PLM systems. Use examples to illustrate how these skills have contributed to your past successes in R&D.
Showcase Cultural Awareness: Given the global nature of the role, include examples of your experience working across diverse teams and geographies. Highlight any international collaborations or projects that demonstrate your cultural awareness and adaptability.
How to prepare for a job interview at Herbalife
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Senior Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed R&D teams in the past, focusing on your strategic decision-making and coaching skills.
✨Highlight Your Technical Expertise
Given the technical nature of this role, be ready to discuss your hands-on experience in product and nutrition research. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the EMEA nutrition landscape and be prepared to share insights on emerging technologies relevant to the industry.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration Questions
This position requires collaboration across various departments. Think of specific instances where you've worked with QA, QC, or supply chain teams to achieve project goals. Highlight your communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Awareness
Since you'll be working across diverse teams and geographies, it's important to show that you understand and respect cultural differences. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully navigated multicultural environments in your previous roles.
