About the role
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 experienced R&D leader to join our Bathurst site and take ownership of Dry 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 the R&D Dry NPD Manager – ANZ, you will lead the development and deployment of new dry pet food products, ensuring we deliver high-quality, consumer-led innovation across the region.
You’ll play a critical role as part of the Bathurst Site Leadership Team, contributing not just to R&D, 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 R&D 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 R&D 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 R&D 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 R&D 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 a global R&D network, with exposure to international markets and innovation
- Play a key role in shaping the future of pet nutrition in ANZ
- Strong focus on career development and succession into senior leadership roles
- Join a purpose-driven business guided by the Five 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
Aplyr's read
Mars is a diverse global powerhouse in confectionery, pet care, and food, attracting talent in manufacturing, sales, and technical roles.
What's promising
- •Mars offers a wide range of career paths across multiple sectors, including food, pet care, and confectionery.
- •The company invests in employee development through programs like the Mars Young Professionals Program.
- •Mars provides opportunities for global mobility and cross-functional career growth.
What to watch
- •The company's large size may lead to bureaucratic decision-making processes.
- •Limited public information about Mars' work-life balance policies.
- •Mars' global operations may require frequent travel or relocation for some roles.
Why Mars
- •Mars is family-owned, allowing for long-term strategic planning without shareholder pressure.
- •The company is known for its iconic brands like M&M's and Snickers, offering strong brand recognition.
- •Mars emphasizes sustainability and responsible sourcing in its operations.
Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?
About Mars
Mars, Incorporated is a global manufacturer of confectionery, pet care, and food products, known for brands like M&M's, Snickers, Pedigree, and Whiskas.
