Research and Development (R&D) Manager – Lae

Do you have what it takes to shape the future of food in PNG with PNG’s biggest food manufacturer?

At Paradise Foods Limited, we proudly create products Papua New Guineans love. We are now seeking a passionate, innovative and driven R&D Manager to lead our product development and technical teams in Lae.

If you thrive on creativity, enjoy solving complex technical challenges, and are excited about turning ideas into products enjoyed by millions, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

The Role:
The R&D Manager will lead the organisation’s innovation and technical development agenda, driving product development, process improvements and cost optimisation initiatives. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for overseeing the R&D Innovation Centre and guiding projects from concept through to commercialisation using the Stage Gate process.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the R&D innovation, cost out and value engineering strategy for the business
• Build, lead and develop a high-performing team of Category Leaders and technical specialists
• Drive new product development, reformulation, process improvement and technical support initiatives
• Oversee R&D project governance ensuring delivery on time and to high technical standards
• Manage the R&D Innovation Centre ensuring safety, compliance, efficiency and capability development
• Partner cross-functionally with key stakeholders to deliver commercially viable outcomes
• Champion technical excellence, consumer focus and continuous improvement across the organisation

About You:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Engineering or a related discipline
• 5–10+ years’ experience in R&D, technical development or continuous improvement within FMCG
• Strong expertise in product development and process engineering, ideally across biscuits, snacks, ice cream, beverages or baked goods
• Proven experience managing projects across NPD, cost optimisation and process improvement
• Demonstrated leadership capability with experience coaching and developing teams
• Solid understanding of food safety, regulatory compliance and manufacturing environments

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary package based on experience
• Career development opportunities within PNG’s largest food manufacturer
• A supportive and collaborative team culture
• The opportunity to lead innovation and create products enjoyed across Papua New Guinea

Ready to shape the future of food innovation in PNG?

To apply, please forward your written application together with your resume, certificates and references before 17th April 2026 to:

The Human Resources Manager
Paradise Foods Limited
Email: recruitment@paradisefoods.com.pg