Sn r&i early life nutrition (eln) exploration director

Join to apply for the SN R&I Early Life Nutrition (ELN) Exploration Director role at Danone.

About The Job

Danone Nutricia Research bridges science and food. Located in the Utrecht Science Park, our state-of-the-art Life Science innovation center focuses on developing new product concepts and improving existing ranges within Specialized Nutrition (SN). We create formulas that offer clinically substantiated health benefits to vulnerable consumers, including infants, toddlers, the elderly, and patients. Our diverse team of over 600 employees combines scientific and technological expertise to foster innovation. Learn more at www.nutriciaresearch.com.

Role Overview

Drive the execution of the Early Life Nutrition (ELN) strategy and pipeline of transformational innovations, leveraging science, technology, and user experience insights, while anchoring in local consumer and market trends. Lead targeted exploration projects to maintain and enhance our competitive edge and influence the realization of ELN growth initiatives, reshaping ELN & Win Brand of First Choice with consumer-centric, value-added benefits.

Main Responsibilities

Develop strategies based on consumer, competitor, regulatory insights, and scientific assets to build a portfolio of transformational innovations, including relevant claims, benefits, product attributes, food forms, and flavors across all price tiers.

• Own and mobilize efforts to increase pipeline sufficiency and NS Y3 from transformational innovations.
• Lead R&I exploration and co-develop ELN category strategy.

• Drive a portfolio of exploration projects to sustain and grow our competitive edge.
• Redesign capabilities for decarbonation, biotics, and compact protein engines across formats.

Play a key role in delivering ELN growth, partnering with scientific and technological teams, engaging senior leaders, and collaborating with external partners.

• Expand relevant benefits across formats.
• Seed future pipeline sufficiency and value at stake.
• Redesign capabilities for decarbonation, liquid stability, biotics, and proteins.
• Drive proprietary techno assets in product design.

• NS growth and pipeline sufficiency.

About You

If you are a visionary, strategic leader with a strong technical background and a passion for team excellence, you are our ideal candidate.

Your Expertise

• Deep understanding of R&I functions and capabilities.
• Broad management experience.
• FMCG R&D/Innovation experience and a proven track record.
• Scientific background relevant to specialized nutrition.
• Interdisciplinary knowledge in IP management, project management, and external collaborations.

Education & Experience

• Master's or Ph.D. in Food Science, Nutrition, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
• Over 12 years of industry experience with a focus on research and innovation.
• Proven leadership in managing teams of experts.

About Us

Join us in a fast-paced, complex environment filled with opportunities. Work with renowned brands like Evian, Nutricia, Activia, and Nutrilon. We promote an inclusive culture that values diversity and innovation. Be part of our movement for a healthier world. One Planet One Health — BY YOU.