Manager Application Development (m/f/d) - Food

Job-ID: 126Category: R&DLocation: Ladenburg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, GermanyWorkplace: On-siteSchedule: Full timePosted: 2026-10-21We are looking for a Manager Application Development (m/f/d) - Food to lead our Ladenburg-based team of six scientists and technicians. In this role, you will translate application strategy and market needs into focused team priorities, innovative concepts and robust customer solutions. You will combine people leadership with strong technical understanding and practical industrial experience across food and beverage applications.The position offers the opportunity to shape application capabilities, guide development projects and work closely with Product Management, Market Development, Sales, Product and Process Development, Quality and Regulatory teams.QualificationsEducation and experienceMaster’s degree or PhD in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related disciplineAt least five years of hands-on industrial experience in the ingredients industry, with a strong focus on food and beverage applicationsStrong knowledge of ingredient functionality and food or beverage systems; understanding of nutritional science is an advantageExperience leading people, coordinating laboratory activities or managing multidisciplinary application projectsPractical experience in experimental design, formulation, application testing, data interpretation and technical documentationSkills and working styleStructured and well organised, with the ability to manage priorities, resources and project milestonesCurious and scientifically rigorous, with a hands-on approach to technical problem solvingStrong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to adapt technical messages to different audiencesSound project-management skills and the ability to coordinate cross-functional contributorsCollaborative leadership style and commitment to developing people and sharing knowledgeFluent spoken and written English; German is an advantageYour benefitsFlexible working hours 6 weeks of vacation entitlement per year Employer-sponsored retirement plansPersonal and occupational accident insurance Private long-term care insuranceAn attractive option for Business Bike leasingA donation to our cafeteria, which serves delicious and healthy foodFree employee parkingAnnual payment in NovemberBonus systemResponsibilitiesTeam leadership and organisationLead, coach and develop a team of six scientists and technicians, setting clear timelines, priorities and responsibilitiesTranslate project objectives into practical team and project goals and ensure effective daily executionPlan team resources and laboratory activities in coordination with the Application Development Director and relevant project ownersCreate a collaborative, curious and accountable working environment and act as the first escalation point for the teamFood and beverage application developmentLead the development and optimisation of food and beverage applications using Jungbunzlauer ingredients and ingredient systemsGuide the design, execution and interpretation of laboratory and application trials, ensuring sound methods, reliable data and clear documentationIdentify and develop new application concepts, product uses and system solutions based on customer needs, market trends and scientific understandingBuild and maintain strong knowledge of ingredient functionality, interactions and performance in finished food and beverage systemsProjects, customers and collaborationLead or contribute to application projects from scoping and experimental planning through validation, recommendation and technical transferSupport selected customer projects, technical troubleshooting and co-development activities in cooperation with Market Development and SalesCommunicate project progress, technical conclusions, risks and recommendations clearly to internal and external stakeholdersCoordinate effectively with other application development and R&D teams , Product Management, Quality, Regulatory AffairsOperational excellence and continuous improvementEnsure safe, efficient and well-documented laboratory operations in line with internal standardsImprove application methods, workflows, tools and knowledge-sharing practices within the teamKeep abreast of food and beverage trends, customer needs, emerging technologies and relevant scientific developmentsEncourage hands-on problem solving and implement practical improvements in the team’s area of responsibilityAbout the company Be part of a team that drives innovation and sustainability. At Jungbunzlauer, we create high-quality, naturally derived ingredients that enhance everyday life – from food and beverage to nutrition, health, and home and personal care. As a trusted partner for ingredient excellence, we offer texturants, acidulants, minerals, and tailored solutions that help customers to solve complex product challenges. With a history of more than 150 years, nearly 1,400 passionate colleagues, and production and fermentation facilities across Europe and North America, we proudly serve over 130 countries worldwide. Join our global network and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future while growing your career in a dynamic, collaborative environment.