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Research Platform Manager

Job Name
Research Platform Manager

General Information

Date Published
27-Feb-2026
Advertising Ends
13-Mar-2026
ID#
14028
Role Type
Science & Technology
Work Type
Permanent Full-Time
Workplace Type
On-site
Country
New Zealand
Location
Manawatu

Position Description

Our Co-operative
Ata whakaarohia tō āpōpō | Imagine Tomorrow with Us
At Te Mātāpuna Fonterra, we want everyone to feel they can be themselves. 

Whether you're early in your career or ready for your next step, Fonterra offers a unique opportunity to grow with a global dairy co-operative that values care, collaboration, and contribution. 

Owned by New Zealand dairy farmers and supported by a dedicated team, we are all working together to create a better future. Imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can grow, and you can create positive change.

He kupu mō mātou | About us | FRDC
At our Research and Development Centre in Palmerston North, we know the smallest things can make a difference, so we research and develop products that last longer, stretch further, work faster, waste less, withstand more and taste better. Bringing together world class dairy products and the deep expertise of our people we work alongside the passionate, talented and innovative food professionals who are driving dairy industry and innovation.

Mō tēnei tūranga | About the Opportunity
We have an exciting and newly created position for a Research Platform Manager to join our Innovation and Brand team at FRDC, located in Palmerston North. This permanent role will report to the General Manager of Discovery Research.

In this role, you will manage all research activities on your platform to generate scientific knowledge across a broad range of Fonterra products and ingredients. You’ll align research outcomes with business goals and guide scientific direction. Collaboration with internal teams and external partners is key, as is sharing insights across the co-op.

You will also lead and develop a team of scientists and research associates, encouraging innovation, teamwork, and ongoing learning. 

Key Accountabilities:
  • Develop and execute the research platform strategy in alignment with business objectives.
  • Act as a scientific thought leader, identifying emerging trends and opportunities in dairy science and nutrition.
  • Oversee the design, execution, and delivery of research projects within the platform. Ensure research quality, compliance with regulatory standards and/or food safety standards, and alignment with commercial needs.
  • Manage research budgets and resource allocation effectively.
  • Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to ensure research insights are translated into business value.
  • Communicate research progress and outcomes through reports, presentations, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
  • Establish and maintain partnerships with universities, research organizations, and industry bodies.
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of scientists and research associates.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. 

Mōu | About You
You are a strategic R&D leader who combines scientific expertise with commercial insight, translating research into business value, and managing regulatory and safety requirements. You lead and mentor teams to deliver complex projects on budget, and ensure results align with business goals. You communicate effectively, whether reporting progress or building industry partnerships, and foster innovation and collaboration. Driven by curiosity and accountability, you turn global dairy trends and new science into impactful innovations.

You will also have:
  • PhD in Food Science, Dairy Science, Nutrition, or a similar discipline
  • 8–10 years of research or research management experience, preferably in the dairy or food industry and, if possible, within a large multinational company
  • Extensive scientific knowledge in dairy science, nutrition, or closely related areas
  • Proven track record in leading research initiatives and managing scientific teams.
  • Exceptional skills in leadership, communication, collaboration and influence.
  • Strong internal and external stakeholder management 

Ngā Aura | Our Values 
At Fonterra, our values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, are for everyone – no matter your background, identify or experience. These values guide us in delivering exceptional outcomes for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other. Discover how your values align with ours by taking our Values Quiz

Tā mātou oati | Our Commitment to You 
We care for our people globally. Our comprehensive benefits support your well-being, development, and work-life balance:
  • Fair and equitable pay
  • Health and well-being programs (medical, mental health support)
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Career growth support
  • Work-life balance options (flexible/hybrid working where possible)
  • Employee recognition
  • Support for community involvement and cultural connection
To learn more, visit Fonterra Careers

Ngā Mahi | A Career of Opportunities
At Te Mātāpuna Fonterra, we are inspired by purpose and guided by our principles and values. Together, we create goodness for generations and make a global impact at a local level. As part of our Co-operative, you are an everyday creator, imagining what Fonterra, dairy, and you can be here.

Tātou Tātou | Join Us
Does this sound good to you? Come join our whānau - bring your whole self, and let's solve for better together. 

You, me, us together, Tātou, tātou.

He Wāhi mō te Katoa | Together, we're shaping a future of inclusion.
Inclusion is key to our Co-operative. We're building a team that reflects the diverse world we live in, believing it drives better decisions and innovation. 

We welcome applications from all backgrounds (ethnicities, genders, identities, orientations, ages, abilities, neurotypes, cultures, religions). 

Even if you don't meet every requirement listed, we encourage you to apply; we value your potential and growth. 

If you face accessibility issues or need accommodations during the process, please contact your recruiter. We ensure fair participation, allowing you to be at your best. Tātou, tātou. 

Applications close at midnight on Friday, 13th of March.