R&D/New Product Development Manager, Mississauga

R&D/New Product Development Manager North York (Mississauga)

$60,000– $70,000 | 18‑Month Contract (July 2026 – December 2027)

Our client, a well‑established and growing Canadian manufacturer of customized food ingredients and seasoning solutions, is seeking an NPD / R&D Manager to join their team. Currently based in North York, the operation will be relocating to a new facility in Mississauga in Summer 2026, supporting continued growth across the Canadian market.

Step Into a Manager Role Without the Title Barrier This is an opportunity for an R&D or NPD professional who is ready for the next step but hasn’t yet held a formal Manager title.

About The Opportunity This is a hands‑on role in a fast‑paced environment where initiative is expected. You will be trusted to lead projects, make decisions, and drive innovation forward.

As an 18‑month maternity leave contract, this role offers the chance to gain meaningful, high‑impact experience and leave with proven ownership of the full NPD lifecycle.

You will collaborate closely with QA, Operations, and Commercial teams to bring products to market.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the full product development lifecycle from concept to launch

Develop and refine formulations, recipes, and processes

Manage timelines and support successful commercialization

Collaborate cross‑functionally to support innovation and resolve challenges

Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and quality standards

Support costing, feasibility, and product specifications

What We’re Looking For

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field

3+ years of experience in NPD or R&D within food manufacturing

Demonstrated ownership of projects from concept to launch

Strong understanding of formulation, processing, and scale‑up

Knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and GFSI standards

Proactive, detail‑oriented, and comfortable working independently

Strong communication and collaboration skills

Why This Role This role offers the opportunity to operate at a Manager level without needing prior Manager title experience. For someone ready to step up, it provides the scope, ownership, and experience needed to move confidently into future leadership roles.

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