About the role
Our Client
Our client is a Singapore-based multinational food and beverage company specializing in the production and distribution of instant beverages, particularly coffee mixes and non-dairy creamers. With a strong presence across Asia, Eastern Europe, and other emerging markets, the company focuses on delivering affordable, mass-market products while continuously optimizing cost efficiency and product formulations. Its operations are supported by manufacturing facilities, including in Malaysia, and it actively competes with Chinese producers by exploring innovations in ingredients and production processes to maintain competitiveness in pricing and quality.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct a comprehensive analysis of existing non-dairy creamer product formulations, focusing on cost structure, ingredient composition, and performance.
Identify opportunities to optimize formulation and reduce production costs while maintaining or improving product quality.
Provide insights into China-based manufacturing practices, including cost advantages, sourcing strategies, and formulation techniques.
Recommend alternative ingredients, suppliers, or processes to improve cost competitiveness against Chinese producers.
Work closely with internal teams (R&D, production, and business) to implement improvements and validate results.
Deliver clear, actionable reports and recommendations to senior stakeholders, including business leadership.
Support ongoing product development or reformulation initiatives as needed during the engagement period.
Participate in periodic on-site visits to the Malaysia facility to collaborate with local teams.
Location & Travel
Candidate can be based anywhere in China (to work remotely), with periodical travel to Malaysia (expenses covered).
Requirements
Minimum 10+ years of experience in food R&D or product development, specifically in non-dairy creamer or related powdered beverage products.
Proven experience working within manufacturing environments in China, with strong understanding of local cost structures and competitive practices.
Deep technical knowledge of formulation, ingredients, and processing for non-dairy creamer products.
Demonstrated track record of cost optimization or formulation improvement projects.
Ability to work in a consultative, advisory capacity and translate technical insights into business impact.
Comfortable working on a contract/freelance basis with flexible engagement structure (e.g., monthly advisory or project-based).
Willingness to travel to Malaysia periodically (expenses covered).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently.
English proficiency preferred but not a must.
Originally posted on Himalayas