Manager - Concept & Development Chef

About the role

At Nestlé R&D South Asia, the Concept & Development Chef will shape the future of noodle seasonings and next‑generation food experiences, working at the intersection of culinary arts, consumer insight, flavour innovation and food technology.

Key responsibilities

• Translate culinary concepts into scalable food products and experiences.
• Develop prototypes, recipes, and seasoning concepts for R&D innovation and renovation projects.
• Bring authentic global cuisine insights into product development, particularly Asian cuisines.
• Collaborate with product developers, flavourists, sensory scientists, factories and markets to turn consumer and culinary insights into commercial products.
• Explore emerging culinary trends, novel ingredients, techniques and potentially patentable culinary processes.
• Represent culinary excellence during innovation workshops, tastings and senior leadership events.

Required profile

• Culinary Degree or professional culinary certification.
• 5‑10+ years of experience in reputable hotel, restaurant, premium food‑service, Michelin‑starred or equivalent culinary environments.
• Experience in FMCG, food manufacturing, product development or culinary innovation is highly desirable.
• Deep understanding of world cuisines, especially Asian traditions, and ability to articulate flavour nuances.
• Strong communication skills in English, with storytelling and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Creator’s mindset, curiosity for food science and willingness to challenge conventional thinking.