Research & Development Manager – Santiago, Chile

About the role

Puratos is seeking a Research & Development Manager to lead its R&D team in Santiago, Chile. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on product innovation across bakery, patisserie and chocolate categories, supporting both group and local market objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Manage, coach and develop the local R&D team, ensuring high‑performance collaboration with other business areas.
• Drive the implementation of group and local innovations, adapting products to market trends and specific customer needs.
• Provide proactive and reactive technical support to customers, guiding them through the adoption of Puratos solutions.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Sales to design business initiatives that roll out bakery, patisserie and chocolate strategies.
• Partner with the Innovation Center to deliver customer events, trainings and seminars showcasing technical capabilities.
• Maintain dialogue with regional and country R&D teams for project prioritisation and best‑practice exchange.
• Manage R&D budget, government tax subsidies and ensure confidentiality of formulas and know‑how.
• Support Quality team in complaint management and guarantee accurate technical documentation, including data sheets and regulatory compliance.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading R&D teams in the food industry.
• Strong understanding of bakery, patisserie and chocolate product development.
• Ability to work closely with customers, internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Excellent communication skills in the local language and English.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on innovation and market trends.

Required skills