R&D Dry NPD Manager – ANZ

Job Description

Job Description:

• You will lead the development and deployment of new dry pet food products
• Mars Petcare home to love brands such as WHISKAS, PEDIGREE, ADVANCE
• Permanent Full-Time role based onsite Bathurst + relocation support

At Mars Petcare, we’re driven by one purpose: A Better World for Pets. Behind every product is a team of passionate experts shaping the future of pet nutrition — and this is your opportunity to lead that innovation.

We’re looking for an experienced R&D leader to join our Bathurst site and take ownership of Dry Product New Product Development (NPD) across ANZ.

This is a high-impact role where you’ll lead innovation, influence strategy, and develop a high-performing team — all while partnering across a truly global network.

As the R&D Dry NPD Manager – ANZ, you will lead the development and deployment of new dry pet food products, ensuring we deliver high-quality, consumer-led innovation across the region.

You’ll play a critical role as part of the Bathurst Site Leadership Team, contributing not just to R&D, but to the broader success, culture, and long-term strategy of the site.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

• Managing a team of 10 dedicated Mars Associates
• Leading end-to-end R&D delivery for dry product innovation across ANZ
• Owning and driving product design, formulations, and raw material specifications
• Managing and delivering a portfolio of innovation and renovation projects
• Partnering closely with Marketing, Supply, Engineering, and Commercial teams
• Collaborating with global R&D and technology teams to deploy and localise new technologies
• Ensuring products are designed for safe, high-quality, and efficient manufacturing
• Driving continuous improvement, sustainability, and quality initiatives
• Leading and developing a team of R&D professionals, building capability and engagement
• Contributing to site leadership, including culture, performance, and strategic direction

About You

You’re a strong people leader with a passion for innovation and a track record of delivering results in a complex, cross-functional environment.

You bring:

• Proven experience in R&D within FMCG or manufacturing environments
• People leadership experience, with a focus on developing high-performing teams
• Background in product, process, or packaging technology (ideally across multiple areas)
• Ability to influence and collaborate across global and regional stakeholders
• A mindset focused on continuous improvement, quality, and consumer outcomes
• A relevant scientific or technical qualification

Why Mars Petcare?

• Work on some of the world’s most loved brands including Pedigree, Whiskas, and Advance
• Be part of a global R&D network, with exposure to international markets and innovation
• Play a key role in shaping the future of pet nutrition in ANZ
• Strong focus on career development and succession into senior leadership roles
• Join a purpose-driven business guided by the Five Principles

Internal Associates: Please note that this role has been graded as a P2 opportunity, please ensure that you discuss your application with your line manager prior to applying including obtaining their endorsement.

Applications close: Tuesday 12th of May, 2026