Manager Research Zwolle • Ausnutria Netherlands

As a Research Manager at Ausnutria, you will play a central role in shaping and executing our R&D strategy, driving innovation at the intersection of science, technology, and nutrition. You will be responsible for translating our strategic vision into actionable annual plans and managing key nutritional and processing research programs that align with our long-term goals supporting dairy based innovative products. In this position, you will lead a dedicated team of talented R&D professionals, ensuring their development, engagement, and high performance, while also working hands-on in various research initiatives.

You will stay ahead of emerging trends in science, technology, regulation, and the competitive landscape, and turn these insights with the team into new opportunities for product support and  innovation. In close collaboration with internal departments as Product Development, RA, IP, Marketing & Sales, Operations as well as external scientific and industry partners, you will ensure that your programs deliver both scientific excellence and practical value. Your ability to effectively manage resources, build strong networks, and foster a culture of innovation will be key to your success.

This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of impactful research initiatives and contribute to Ausnutria’s mission of improving health through high-quality nutrition.

In the Netherlands, we work with almost 900 enthusiastic colleagues towards the same goal; delivering high-quality baby and children's food based on goat and cow milk! The products are made in our three factories in the Netherlands (Kampen, Leeuwarden, and Heerenveen) and sold worldwide from our own sales offices and local distributors on all continents. At our headquarters in Zwolle, 200 colleagues work.

Ausnutria Dairy Corporation Ltd is the parent company of Ausnutria B.V. and also has companies in Australia, New Zealand, and China. It is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and has been part of Yili, the fifth-largest dairy company in the world by revenue, for several years.

• You have a PhD in the area of Dairy/Food science;
• You have considerable working experience in the dairy, pharma- or infant nutrition industry;
• At least 5+ years' experience in (goat) dairy research;
• Profound Project and Line Management skills
• Good interpersonal & communication skills and fluency in English, being fluent in Dutch is a plus;
• You are a team player, able to operate and manage effectively in multi-disciplinary teams;
• Result-driven, you demonstrate speed-of-action, while remaining accurate;
• A problem solver that shows initiative, is thinking forward and able to make solid decisions;
• Up-to-date of emerging technologies;
• Able to translate business needs into R&D project and product portfolio.

• A salary between € 6,500.00 euro & 9,700.00 euro (based on fulltime) depending on education and experience;
• 25 vacation days and the possibility to buy five more;
• Working at a socially engaged and environmentally conscious organization;
• A laptop and a phone;
• A vitality contribution of € 200.00 euro or a discount through Bedrijfsfitness Nederland;
• A hybrid work environment.
• Lease car.

If you're ready to lead with purpose and make a real difference, we look forward to hearing from you!