Vice President, Research & Development

Takasago International Corporation U S A•Rockleigh, NJ

69d•Onsite

About The Position

We invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity as Vice President of Research & Development at Takasago International Corporation, a global leader in flavors, fragrances, aroma ingredients, and fine chemicals. At Takasago, you’ll help shape the future of sensory innovation - bridging science, creativity, and technology to enrich lives around the world. The Vice President of Research & Development will lead Takasago’s R&D strategy in the Americas from our corporate headquarters in Rockleigh, NJ, ensuring alignment with our global scientific and business objectives. This role requires a visionary leader who excels in fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and translating scientific excellence into market success. You’ll partner with global teams, affiliates, and customers—championing an integrated approach that strengthens Takasago’s leadership in flavor and fragrance technology worldwide.

Requirements

Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry or related discipline strongly preferred.
Experience: Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in the fragrance, flavor, or related scientific industry.
Proven ability to lead scientific teams, manage complex projects, and drive innovation in a global context.
Strong communication, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed, including annual business meetings in Japan and client visits.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic and scientific leadership across Chemistry, Biology, and Analytical Sciences for the Flavors, Fragrances, and Aroma Chemicals businesses.
Develop and execute long-term research goals aligned with the Fragrance Division R&D Strategy and Corporate VP of Global Fragrance R&D.
Lead and inspire R&D, Fragrance Technology & Innovation teams—cultivating talent and ensuring the organization is fit for the future.
Stay abreast of emerging scientific trends and technologies; integrate new research insights into actionable innovation strategies.
Collaborate closely with sales teams to align research priorities with customer needs and market opportunities.
Drive external innovation by developing partnerships with universities, research institutes, and industry collaborators.
Represent the Americas region in global R&D governance and resource planning.
Oversee key managerial functions including budgeting, capital projects, staffing, and compliance.
Participate in Intellectual Property development and oversee related agreements (e.g., co-development, material transfer).
Deliver compelling technical presentations and strategic updates to internal and external stakeholders.