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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.