R&D Starter Culture Group Manager

R&D Starter Culture Group Manager Join to apply for the R&D Starter Culture Group Manager role at IFF. Location: Dangé-Saint-Romain (86), France. IFF is seeking a visionary and inspiring Group Leader to head our Starter Culture Development SCD Group in Dangé-Saint-Romain (86), France. If you’re passionate about shaping the future of fermented dairy products, and you thrive on driving scientific excellence while empowering brilliant minds—this opportunity is for you. Our state‑of‑the‑art facility hosts a team of highly skilled scientists and technicians revolutionizing dairy fermentation with flagship starter cultures technologies like Choozit® Lift and Yomix® Pr. At IFF (International Flavors & Fragrances), we are united by a shared passion for discovery and innovation. We push past traditional boundaries to create the next generation of solutions for the food, beverage, health, biosciences, and sensorial experiences industries. Our purpose is to redefine how we live and thrive by applying science and creativity for a better world. Responsibilities Develop new starter cultures that push the boundaries of differentiation—delivering superior taste, texture, nutrition and safety, all with sustainability and affordability in mind. Champion the integration of automation, digital tools and AI into applied dairy R&D. Provide strategic and operational leadership to the SCD Dangé R&D team, fostering a high‑trust and collaborative culture. Lead the Starter Culture R&D Group in Dangé, managing a team of 18 permanent IFF employees championing a culture of curiosity, agility, and continuous improvement through coaching and talent development. Support development of advanced, high‑throughput dairy models reflective of global cheese and yogurt processes. Accelerate the commercialization of game‑changing microbial‑based dairy solutions in synergy with global innovation hubs. Streamline industrial processes and support the deployment of the culture asset strategy to enhance productivity and capacity. Expand innovation beyond cultures into enzymes, flavors, and digital transformation (AI, automation, data). Ensure alignment with IFF’s strategic goals, customer‑centric approach, and DEI principles. Lead organizational change initiatives and contribute to the long‑term vision of the company. Qualifications Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Microbiology, Food Science, Biotechnology, or a related field. Proven leadership experience in R&D or innovation management, ideally in a global matrix organization. Strong track record in dairy or microbial‑based product development and commercialization. Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and team‑building skills. Experience managing cross‑functional and multi‑cultural teams. Fluent in English; proficiency in French is a strong asset. Would You Stand Out? Minimum 10 years of experience in innovation roles within the dairy industry with practical technical knowledge of microbiology. Familiarity with digital tools, AI, and automation in R&D environments. Demonstrated ability to lead organizational change and transformation. Why Choose Us? Work in a state‑of‑the‑art facility with cutting‑edge technologies. Be part of a global innovation network with strong academic and industry partnerships. Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth. Inclusive environment and competitive compensation and benefits. Make a real impact on sustainable food systems. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Other Industries Chemical Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr