Global R&D Laboratory Lead - Cocoa Science

Job description

About the role The R&D Laboratory Lead – Cocoa Systems Science ensures implementation of the Cocoa Systems Science roadmap by developing and coordinating the experimental and analytical capabilities required across cocoa research programs. The role combines strong scientific expertise with experimental program coordination, translating research priorities into robust experimental approaches, analytical strategies and actionable scientific knowledge.

It works closely with project and functional teams, providing expertise and coordination without owning the overall Cocoa Systems Science strategy. Key responsibilities include Implement the development and execution of experimental strategies across Cocoa Systems Science projects, ensuring robust experimental design and scientifically sound approaches. Contribute to the definition of experimental programs by identifying appropriate methods, technologies and capabilities needed to address key research questions.

Develop and coordinate laboratory capabilities required to support current and future Cocoa Systems Science programs. Provide scientific and technical expertise to project teams, supporting experimental design, interpretation of results and development of conclusions. Coordinate analytical approaches and capabilities across internal R&D and QA laboratories and relevant external scientific partners. Translate experimental results into scientific insights and recommendations that support project and program decisions.

Contribute to the development of the laboratory capability roadmap, identifying needs and opportunities related to equipment, analytical methods, technologies and external capabilities. Strengthen scientific knowledge capture and reuse, ensuring experimental results, protocols and learnings can support other Cocoa Systems Science projects. Own digitalization of laboratory and experimental activities by improving structured data capture, contributing to LIMS implementation, and developing Power BI dashboards that make project data, results and key indicators accessible for analysis and decision-making.

Act as a scientific interface with relevant R&D, QA, Operations, Sourcing and external partners for laboratory and experimental activities. Implement good experimental practices and scientific rigor across laboratory-based Cocoa Systems Science activities and share expertise with colleagues where relevant. Expected Outputs and Impact Strong experimental and analytical support for Cocoa Systems Science programs. Robust scientific approaches and high-quality experimental data supporting project decisions.

Improved connection between laboratory capabilities and Cocoa Systems Science research priorities. Effective coordination and use of internal and external analytical and scientific capabilities. Stronger capture and reuse of scientific knowledge across projects. A clear and prioritized view of future laboratory capability needs, including equipment, methods, technologies and external support. About you Master’s degree or PhD in Food Science, Food Technology, Engineering, Chemistry or a related discipline.

Fluent in business English. Additional languages are an asset.

R&D background

Minimum 7 years of experience in food, ingredient, or related R&D laboratory environments and experimental programs.

Scientific data analysis

Strong grasp of experimental design, analytical science, and interpreting complex data.

Commercial translation

Ability to turn business innovation priorities and scientific questions into practical experimental setups.

Cross-functional coordination

Experience aligning multidisciplinary teams, internal departments (Quality, Operations, Sourcing), and external partners.

Technical communication

Strong writing and verbal skills to clearly explain technical conclusions to diverse stakeholders.

Accountable execution

Highly autonomous, practical, and hands-on with a strong focus on laboratory safety and reliable results.

Resilient & collaborative

Adaptable to dynamic R&D environments, with a strong commitment to knowledge sharing and teamwork.