Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Application Development Director to lead and transform our global application teams in Germany and Chicago. This high-impact role offers a unique opportunity for rapid evolution, shaping the future of application innovation across key strategic industrial market segments, including Food & Beverage, Nutrition, Home Care, and Personal Care.

Key Pillars

Innovation – Driving and participating in the ideation, proposal, and approval of new products to expand the portfolio, ensuring technical functionality and market fit. Contributing to M&A activities related to innovation.
Customer & Market Solutions – Addressing specific customer challenges and market needs with tailored, high-impact solutions that create competitive advantages.
Application Discovery – Exploring and unlocking new uses and applications for existing portfolio products, expanding their potential and market reach.

As a key member of the R&D leadership team, you will drive the strategic direction of application development, ensuring a strong alignment with market needs and business objectives. Your leadership will foster agile, cross-functional collaboration between product development, sales, and marketing to accelerate innovation and value creation.

Responsibilities

Team Management: Lead and develop five high‑performing teams in Germany and Chicago (total of 20 people), ensuring technical excellence and collaboration.
Innovation & Application Development: Oversee the design, testing, and optimization of application-based solutions that address customer needs and market trends, including model systems and AI.
Operational Excellence: Drive efficiency and best practices in application labs, ensuring strong project execution and resource allocation.
Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the application strategy to drive innovation and customer engagement in target market segments.
Customer & Market Focus: Work closely with key customers, product managers, and sales to provide tailored application support and strengthen partnerships.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Align with Product and Process Development, Strategic Marketing, Regulatory, and Commercial teams to ensure seamless go-to-market strategies.

Qualifications

Educational Background: Master’s or Ph.D. in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Experience:
- Minimum 10+ years of experience in product application or technical leadership roles in B2B industries with international experience.
- Proven track record in Food & Beverage, Nutrition, Home Care, or Personal Care markets.
- Experience managing teams internationally and working in a matrix organization.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong leadership and people development skills, with a passion for building high-performing teams.
- Ability to translate market needs into technical solutions that drive business impact.
- Excellent stakeholder management and ability to work cross-functionally.
- Strategic and agile thinker with a hands‑on approach to problem-solving.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage both technical and commercial audiences.
Language:
- Fluent spoken and written English.
- German and French are a plus.

About Us

Be part of a team that drives innovation and sustainability. At Jungbunzlauer, we create high-quality, naturally derived ingredients that enhance everyday life – from food and beverage to nutrition, health, and home and personal care. As a trusted partner for ingredient excellence, we offer texturants, acidulants, minerals, and tailored solutions that help customers to solve complex product challenges.

With a history of more than 150 years, nearly 1,400 passionate colleagues, and production and fermentation facilities across Europe and North America, we proudly serve over 130 countries worldwide. Join our global network and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future while growing your career in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

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