Warabeya North America · 1 day ago
Head of Research And Development
DFW Metroplex
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$90K/yr - $140K/yrWarabeya North America is seeking a Head of Research and Development to lead product development initiatives and serve as the primary point of communication with customers. The role involves understanding customer needs, translating feedback into development plans, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to execute product projects.
Food Production
Hiring Manager
Nozomi Saenz, SHRM-SCP
Responsibilities
Act as the main liaison with our customers to understand their needs, product concepts, and quality expectations
Lead the development of new products and improvements to existing items, ensuring alignment with customer requirements and market trends
Translate customer feedback and business goals into clear development plans and sample prototypes
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, procurement, and sales, to execute product development projects
Evaluate product feasibility, cost structures, ingredient options, and manufacturing capabilities
Present product concepts, samples, and R&D updates to internal leadership and external partners
Stay informed about food trends, consumer preferences, and competitive products to guide innovation
Qualification
Required
Strong passion for food and a good understanding of what makes products appealing, high quality, and commercially successful
Fluency in English and Japanese language skills (spoken and written)
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and project management skills
Ability to work cross-functionally and build strong internal and external relationships
Open to business trips up to 25%
Preferred
Sales experience, especially in the food industry
Experience at a food trading company
Experience in food manufacturing, R&D, or product development environments
Knowledge of ingredient sourcing, food production processes, or cost structures
Benefits
Company-paid Medical/Dental/Vision through CIGNA (employee premium only) after 30 days of service.
After 12 months of service: 10% company match for 401(k), vested immediately.
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Company
Warabeya North America
Warabeya was incorporated in July 1993. Production began in March 1994.
Founded in 1993
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase