Job Description:
* You will lead the development and deployment of new dry pet food products
* Mars Petcare home to love brands such as WHISKAS, PEDIGREE, ADVANCE
* Permanent Full-Time role based onsite Bathurst relocation support
At Mars Petcare, we’re driven by one purpose: A Better World for Pets. Behind every product is a team of passionate experts shaping the future of pet nutrition — and this is your opportunity to lead that innovation.
We’re looking for an experiencedRD leader to join our Bathurst site and take ownership ofDry Product New Product Development (NPD) across ANZ.
This is a high-impact role where you’ll lead innovation, influence strategy, and develop a high-performing team — all while partnering across a truly global network.
As theRD Dry NPD Manager – ANZ, you will lead thedevelopment and deployment of new dry pet food products, ensuring we deliver high-quality, consumer-led innovation across the region.
You’ll play a critical roleas part of the Bathurst Site Leadership Team, contributing not just to RD, but to the broader success, culture, and long-term strategy of the site.
What You’ll Be Responsible For
* Managing a team of 10 dedicated Mars Associates
* Leading end-to-end RD delivery for dry product innovation across ANZ
* Owning and driving product design, formulations, and raw material specifications
* Managing and delivering a portfolio of innovation and renovation projects
* Partnering closely with Marketing, Supply, Engineering, and Commercial teams
* Collaborating with global RD and technology teams to deploy and localise new technologies
* Ensuring products are designed for safe, high-quality, and efficient manufacturing
* Driving continuous improvement, sustainability, and quality initiatives
* Leading and developing a team of RD professionals, building capability and engagement
* Contributing to site leadership, including culture, performance, and strategic direction
About You
You’re a strong people leader with a passion for innovation and a track record of delivering results in a complex, cross-functional environment.
You bring:
* Proven experience in RD within FMCG or manufacturing environments
* People leadership experience, with a focus on developing high-performing teams
* Background in product, process, or packaging technology (ideally across multiple areas)
* Ability to influence and collaborate across global and regional stakeholders
* A mindset focused on continuous improvement, quality, and consumer outcomes
* A relevant scientific or technical qualification
Why Mars Petcare?
* Work on some of the world’s most loved brands including Pedigree, Whiskas, and Advance
* Be part of aglobal RD network, with exposure to international markets and innovation
* Play a key role in shaping thefuture of pet nutrition in ANZ
* Strong focus oncareer development and succession into senior leadership roles
* Join a purpose-driven business guided by theFive Principles
Internal Associates: Please note that this role has been graded as a P2 opportunity, please ensure that you discuss your application with your line manager prior to applying including obtaining their endorsement.
Applications close: Tuesday 12th of May, 2026