Are you ready to shape the future of food innovation at a global leader in sustainable oils and fats?
At SD Guthrie International, a worldwide player in plant-based oils and fats, we are looking for an experienced and driven Lead Scientist. Based at our Innovation Centre in Zwijndrecht, you will lead customer-driven PID projects focused on product development, food safety, and regulatory compliance—with real impact on global food systems.
Your responsibilities
- Initiate and lead innovation and product development projects, often driven by specific customer requests, processing or food safety issues.
- Oversee product scale-up trials in our pilot plant and ensure sample coordination and dispatch.
- Approve product specifications and ensure quality, food safety, and compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
- Translate key developments and upcoming risks into concrete innovation opportunities.
- Represent SD Guthrie International in (inter)national sector platforms, conferences and expert working groups related to food safety and the fats & oils industry.
- Manage a small team of Scientific Assistants and collaborate closely with global colleagues from the Product Innovation & Development (PID) department and R&D.
- Engage with internal and external stakeholders at various levels—from lab technicians, operators to industry leaders and policymakers.
What you bring
- A university degree (MSc or preferably PhD) in Food Technology, (Food)Chemistry, or a related field—preferably with a focus on food safety, product development, or chemical research.
- At least 5 years of relevant experience in the food or ingredients industry.
- Strong knowledge of food safety legislation, contaminants, and regulatory developments (e.g. pesticide and contaminant limits).
- Proven experience in leading projects and managing teams.
- Excellent communication and networking skills—you navigate seamlessly between science and application and are comfortable engaging at multiple levels.
- Fluency in English is required; Dutch is a plus.
- Willingness to travel internationally approx. twice per year.
Your Profile
- A strategic, full-time role in a forward-looking global organization with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and food safety.
- The opportunity to work on impactful projects that influence future food products.
- A collaborative and international environment with top-tier expertise in oils, fats, and food innovation.
- A modern workplace located in Zwijndrecht, the Netherlands, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for research and development.
Ready to join us?
Are you excited to help shape the next generation of sustainable food solutions? Apply now for the position of Lead Scientist Food Innovation at SD Guthrie International in Zwijndrecht.
Disclaimer:
For recruitment agencies:
We have made a conscious decision to do the recruitment ourselves. Therefore, we kindly ask you to not forward any candidates, as we will not accept their applications.
