R&D Lab manager
Ixelles, BE
The Fine Lab
At The Fine Lab, we are at the forefront of innovation in the world of biscuits. Our multicultural team, located in Brussels (Ixelles), is dedicated to inventing, baking, and tasting new types of biscuits while continuously improving existing products.
The Fine Lab is the center of Research and Development. We work for all biscuits companies that are related to the Ferrero group. This includes the Fine Biscuits Company Group with world-famous brands such as Delacre, Délichoc, Kjeldsens, and Royal Dansk, but also FBC UK with brands like Maryland, Jammie Dodger, etc.
Our collaborative spirit extends not only within our teams but also with our association to the Ferrero group.
Company Description
Created in 2020, the Fine Biscuits Company Group (FBC Group) is composed of three complementary companies:
- Kelsen Group
- Biscuits Delacre
- The Fine Lab
Together, one of the leaders in premium biscuit assortment market. We produce some of Europe’s most iconic biscuit brands including Delacre, Delichoc, Kjeldsens and Royal Dansk. Our products leverage two unique archetypes of European excellence: the butter cookie from Denmark and the chocolate-coated biscuit from Belgium.
Both Delacre and Kelsen have a long-lasting history, deeply rooted in their countries of origin, and proud holders of the Royal Warranty from respectively the Queen of Denmark and the “Court” of Belgium.
Our brands are supported by The Fine Lab, where we innovate to create new products with a passion for quality and the will to continue to delight consumers around the world.
Our Group is composed of more than 800 employees around the world who share our values of Loyalty and Trust, Respect & Responsibility, Integrity & Moderation, Passion for Quality, Research & Innovation.
With a presence in 7 different countries, and part of the Ferrero Ecosystem, we offer rewarding career opportunities.
About the Role
Following an internal move, we are looking for an R&D Lab Manager to lead a laboratory team and play a key role in product innovation.
In this role, you will:
- Lead and develop a team of 3 R&D technicians / pastry chefs with diverse backgrounds
- Combine people management and project leadership in a hands‑on R&D environment
- Drive the development of new biscuit concepts and the continuous improvement of existing products
- Set project priorities, manage timelines, monitor progress and communicate clearly with stakeholders
- Create a motivating team environment where individuals can grow and perform at their best
- Work closely with Marketing, New Product Development, Quality and Industrial teams in an international context
You report directly to the Head of The Fine Lab and act as a key interface between creativity, execution and collaboration.
Who we are looking for
- Experience in R&D within FMCG, preferably in the food sector
- People management experience and a genuine coaching mindset
- Strong project management and communication skills
- A hands‑on profile, comfortable working alongside the team when needed
- Creativity, curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring new ideas
- Ability to work in a multicultural, international environment
- Fluent in English (company’s business languages), French is a plus
Occasional travel to production sites is required. A European driving license is therefore mandatory; depending on travel needs, a UK visa may be required.
Join us!
If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of biscuit innovation, exploring diverse flavours, and contributing to a collaborative team environment, we invite you to join The Fine Lab. Join us in redefining the world of biscuits at The Fine Lab!