Junior Npd and R&d Executive

Company: Sleepy Owl Coffee
Position: Junior NPD and R&D Executive
Experience: 2-3 years
Location: New Delhi
Employment Type: Full-time

About Sleepy Owl Coffee
Sleepy Owl Coffee is a leading FMCG company specializing in manufacturing and retailing
premium coffee products. Our diverse product portfolio includes Dip Coffee Bags, Cold Brew
Coffee, Ready To Drink Cold Brew, Ready To Drink Cold Coffee, Ground Coffee, Whole Beans,
and Coffee Premixes.

Position Overview
We are seeking a dynamic Junior NPD and R&D Executive to join our innovation team and
drive the development of exciting new coffee products. This role is perfect for someone with
a passion for coffee, food science, and product development who wants to make a
significant impact in the specialty coffee industry.

Key Responsibilities
Product Development & Innovation
- Lead end-to-end new product development from concept to market launch
- Develop innovative coffee formulations and recipes for various product categories
- Conduct comprehensive market research and trend analysis to identify opportunities
- Create detailed product specifications and technical documentation
- Manage product development timelines and coordinate cross-functional activities

Technical Operations
- Design and execute lab-scale and pilot plant trials for new product validation
- Collaborate with production teams to scale up formulations from lab to commercial

production
- Conduct sensory evaluations and consumer testing to optimize product profiles
- Troubleshoot formulation issues and provide technical solutions
- Ensure products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements

Vendor & Supplier Management
- Build and maintain relationships with flavor houses and ingredient suppliers
- Source high-quality raw materials and specialty ingredients
- Evaluate and onboard third-party manufacturing vendors
- Conduct supplier audits and capability assessments
- Negotiate pricing and terms for new ingredients and materials

Cross-functional Collaboration
- Work closely with production teams to ensure smooth product launches
- Collaborate with packaging teams on product presentation and shelf-life optimization
- Support marketing teams with technical product information and claims validation
- Coordinate with quality assurance teams to establish testing protocols
- Provide technical support to sales teams for customer queries

Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain detailed records of all experiments, trials, and formulations
- Prepare technical reports and presentations for management review
- Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and industry standards
- Create standard operating procedures for new processes

Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor//'s degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Chemistry, or related field
- Additional certifications in food safety (HACCP, ISO 22000) preferred

Experience
- 2-3 years of experience in product development within FMCG food/beverage

industry
- Prior experience in quality assurance or quality control roles
- Experience with coffee or beverage product development is highly preferred
- Hands-on experience with lab-scale formulation and testing

Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of food chemistry and ingredient functionality
- Experience with sensory evaluation and consumer testing methodologies
- Knowledge of food processing techniques and equipment
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements for food products
- Proficiency in statistical analysis and data interpretation

Software Proficiency
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint skills
- Experience with statistical software (Minitab, R, or similar)
- Knowledge of project management tools
- Familiarity with ERP systems preferred

Desired Qualifications
Industry Knowledge
- Deep understanding of coffee processing, roasting, and brewing techniques
- Knowledge of specialty coffee market trends and consumer preferences
- Experience with cold brew and ready-to-drink beverage development
- Understanding of coffee supply chain and sourcing practices

Personal Attributes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent project management and organizational abilities
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Creative thinking and innovation mindset
- Attention to detail and quality-focused approach

What We Offer
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
- Professional development opportunities and skill enhancement programs
- Flexible work arrangements
- Employee discounts on Sleepy Owl Coffee products
- Opportunity to work with cutting-edge coffee technology and premium ingredients
- Collaborative and innovative work environment
- Career growth opportunities within a rapidly expanding company

Application Process
Reporting Structure
This position reports to the Founding Team and will work closely with cross-functio