Director, R&D Intelligence & Foresight at SAMYANG AMERICA INC – Brea, California

About Samyang America

Samyang America stands as the #1 Gen Z brand, boldly shaping the future of food culture with innovative flavors, viral trends, and unforgettable brand experiences. We don’t just create food - we craft moments that spark excitement, inspire connection, and celebrate bold individuality.

Our mission is to bring daring, delicious products to the market that resonate deeply with the next generation of food lovers. From iconic spicy noodles to creative new launches, we are driven by passion, creativity, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of taste and culture.

At Samyang America, you’ll join a dynamic team that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and a shared love for bold flavor experiences. We value fresh ideas, energetic spirit, and the courage to lead trends rather than follow them.

If you’re ready to be part of a brand that’s more than just food - a brand that moves culture and creates unforgettable moments - join our team today!

Position Summary: We are looking for a Director, R&D Intelligence & Foresight who will be responsible for building a forward-looking intelligence capability grounded in R&D, integrating insights from culture, technology, materials, and processing innovation to identify future growth opportunities beyond what market data alone can reveal.

This role functions similarly to advanced foresight and consumer insight teams embedded within R&D organizations at leading global consumer companies. The Director translates early signals and technical possibilities into strategic implications that inform growth strategy, innovation, and new business exploration.

Key Responsibilities:

R&D-Grounded Intelligence

• Track and interpret emerging food technologies and processing methods

• Monitor innovations in raw materials, ingredients, and product formulation

• Assess technology roadmaps aligned with company capabilities

• Partner closely with R&D to translate technical insights into growth and innovation implications

Foresight Beyond Market Data

• Monitor cultural, lifestyle, and consumer evolution trends

• Identify early and weak signals ahead of traditional market data

• Explore regulatory, sustainability, and ecosystem trends shaping future growth

Opportunity Shaping

• Synthesize diverse signals into clear strategic opportunity areas

• Frame implications for:

  • New product and packaging platforms

  • New business models

  • Cross-industry and ecosystem collaborations

• Support growth exploration teams with structured foresight insights

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Strategy, Engineering, or related field (MBA preferred)

• 10–15+ years of experience in strategy, innovation, new business creation, or venture-style roles

• Proven experience leading ambiguous, early-stage growth initiatives

• Strong ability to structure problems and drive decisions under uncertainty

• Experience working cross-functionally with R&D, marketing, and commercial teams

• Strong executive communication and influence skills

Preferred Requirements:

• Experience in CPG, food & beverage, or consumer innovation

• Background in venture studios, incubators, accelerators, or internal growth teams

• Experience leading or mentoring entrepreneurial teams

• Exposure to partnerships, licensing, or M&A evaluation

• International or multi-market experience

The base salary for this position is between $140,000.00 and $165,000.00 per year. Actual compensation will depend on a variety of factors, including qualifications, experience, and location. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation and benefits, including an annual incentive bonus, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, PTO/FTO, and a 401(k) plan with company match.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer:

Samyang America is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We do not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.