Senior Director II – Functional Research, Application & Ingredient Delivery

Role Overview 

The Senior Director II, Functional Research, Application & Ingredient Delivery is a pivotal leader in the Flavor & Ingredient Research (FIR) organization and a key member of the Research to Experimentation (RtE) Leadership Team. This role will spearhead end-to-end functional research, ingredient application, and technology delivery to transform innovative science into consumer-relevant beverage solutions that deliver taste superiority with added functional benefits across the Coca-Cola portfolio. 

You will lead a high-performing team of scientists and application experts to: 

• Identify functional white spaces 

• Build foundational science and ingredient knowledge 

• Develop functional ingredients strategy and pipeline that will enable solutions to address consumer tensions with competitive edge 

• Translate research into breakthrough, consumer-centric applications 

• Deliver functional ingredients into commercially viable products 
  This role acts as a Center of Excellence for functional ingredients research and application, ingredient delivery systems, and technology integration. 

You will collaborate globally across Technical Innovation & Supply Chain (TISC), Human and Consumer Insights, Global Categories, and regional R&D centers to shape Coca-Cola’s functional ingredient strategy, influence industry direction, and forge partnerships with universities, suppliers, and technology leaders. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership & Innovation 

• Develop and execute Big Bet technology platforms that address critical consumer needs and drive short-, mid-, and long-term growth. 

• Provide inspirational thought leadership to guide functional ingredient research and application strategy globally. 

• Identify and scope high-value opportunities using market trends, consumer insights, and scientific advances. 

• Ensure cross-category platform development for scalable functional solutions. 

Functional Research & Ingredient Delivery 

• Advance functional ingredient science from concept to commercial launch, ensuring application in diverse beverage formats. 

• Lead development of industry-leading beverage application technologies and delivery systems. 

• Establish scientific frameworks for ingredient claims, regulatory compliance, and performance benchmarks together with SRA (Scientific Regulatory Affairs). 

• Oversee technology transfer processes from research through product development to commercialization. 

Global Collaboration & Stakeholder Influence 

• Partner with internal stakeholders across RTE, R&D, technical functions (including Scientific & Regulatory Affairs), marketing, and category leadership to align strategy and execution. 

• Influence external stakeholders—including suppliers, universities, and technology partners—to co-develop cutting-edge functional ingredient solutions. 

• Build compelling business cases to secure investment and organizational buy-in. 

People Leadership 

• Build, inspire, and develop a global network of functional research and application experts. 

• Allocate resources strategically, manage budgets, and set clear performance expectations. 

• Foster a high-impact culture focused on innovation, agility, and continuous learning. 

• Serve as a mentor, role model, and advocate for talent development. 

Operational & Execution Excellence 

• Implement structured processes for early-stage experimentation through to commercial delivery. 

• Maintain clear routines to track milestones, budgets, and success metrics. 

• Communicate progress and achievements to senior leadership and across the organization. 

Leadership Profile 

• Strategic Thinker: Capable of envisioning future possibilities and integrating science, consumer insights, and business priorities. 

• Influence & Business Acumen: Ability to shape and implement strategic agendas across the Coca-Cola system, while influencing industry standards. 

• Agile Innovator: Comfortable taking calculated risks and pivoting based on market and science-led opportunities. 

• Inspiring People Leader: Proven ability to lead, build, and motivate global teams. 

• Connector: Strong ability to bring stakeholders together across functions, geographies, and disciplines. 

Qualifications & Experience 

• Bachelor in the field of science and engineering including but not limited to: Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, Bio-chemical engineering, Physics, etc.  Master or Ph.D. in the above field preferred  

• Minimum 15 years of experience in industry. Preferred experience in food & beverage or pharmaceutical industry. Demonstrated ability to take innovations from scientific concept to commercial launch. 

• Proven track record in cross-functional, multi-market collaboration with tight timelines. 

• Experience influencing senior leadership and shaping organizational strategies. 

Technical Competencies 

• Expertise in ingredient science, application technologies, and delivery systems. 

• Deep understanding of beverage formulation, sensory optimization, and technological integration. 

• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks for functional claims and labeling. 

• Industry network and external collaboration experience. 

What We Offer 

• Purpose-Driven Work: Help shape products that deliver both pleasure and functional benefits to consumers worldwide. 

• Global Connections: Work at the center of a worldwide network of innovation and technology leaders. 

• Culture of Belonging: Join an organization where diverse perspectives are valued and innovation thrives. 

• Impact: Directly shape the functional ingredient platform that will define the next generation of Coca-Cola beverages.