About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with a portfolio that includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Lay's, Gatorade, Quaker, and Tropicana. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, PepsiCo operates in over 200 countries, employing more than 300,000 people globally. The company is committed to sustainable growth, innovation, and delivering profitable results while positively impacting people and the planet. PepsiCo's Global R&D organization plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of food through cutting-edge research, product development, and strategic portfolio management.

Role Overview

As the R&D Sr. Director, Global R&D Foods, Strategy and Portfolio Management, you will lead the oversight of R&D strategy and portfolio for PepsiCo's Global Foods division. Reporting to the SVP of Foods R&D with a dotted line to the VP of S&PM, this senior leadership position is central to aligning R&D resources with PepsiCo's long-term profitable and sustainable growth agenda. You will partner with senior management to create and manage a portfolio of strategic options that balance short- and long-term objectives, risks, and costs. As a key member of the R&D Global Foods Leadership Team and R&D Strategy Leadership Team, you will ensure the Global Foods R&D portfolio integrates seamlessly into PepsiCo's overall global R&D strategy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Portfolio Leadership

Define and manage a dynamic portfolio of strategic options that align precisely with Global Foods priorities. This involves forecasting trends, evaluating opportunities, and ensuring R&D investments drive innovation in snacks, cereals, and other food categories.

Annual Operating Plan Development

Lead the creation of the sector's Annual Operating Plan (AOP) and make real-time adjustments throughout the year to respond to market shifts and business needs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work closely with S&PM leadership to secure investments and make informed trade-offs during the AOP process. Partner with Sector Opex leads to integrate local project portfolios with global R&D initiatives across innovation, TBS, productivity, and more, leveraging systems like PLM, MyInnovation, and Clarity.

Value-Based Portfolio Management

Implement advanced value-based portfolio management practices and enhance portfolio analytics to support data-driven decisions. Provide strategic planning support and insights for Global Foods, including sector footprint assessments.

Change Management and Partnerships

Drive organization-wide change through integrated strategies, cross-sector data requests, and collaboration with Finance and HR on budgeting and resourcing. Facilitate competitive intelligence, benchmarking, and best practice sharing across S&PM leads and R&D teams.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education and Experience

A Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a related field is required, coupled with 15+ years of experience in the food, beverage, or CPG industry. Your background must emphasize product development, technology development, and strategic roles both internally and externally.

Leadership and Technical Expertise

Demonstrate proven technical credibility with end-to-end R&D experience across categories and functions. Possess a strong understanding of global food R&D and the business landscape to craft compelling visions and business cases for strategic solutions.

Skills and Competencies

Exhibit a track record of cross-functional program delivery, senior leadership engagement, and high-performance execution in ambiguous environments. Strong strategic problem-solving, technical and strategic thinking, communication skills, and the ability to influence across matrixed organizations are essential. Maintain an outward mindset on technology, consumer, competitive, and macroeconomic trends, with global perspective and cultural sensitivity.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a premium compensation package tailored for senior leaders, including a competitive base salary, annual bonuses, and long-term incentives. Enjoy comprehensive health benefits, retirement savings with matching contributions, paid parental leave, and wellness programs. Additional perks include flexible work arrangements, tuition reimbursement, and exclusive employee discounts on PepsiCo products.

Career Growth

This role positions you for accelerated advancement within PepsiCo's R&D and executive leadership tracks. Gain exposure to global strategies, cross-functional partnerships, and high-impact projects that shape the future of food innovation. PepsiCo invests heavily in leadership development, mentorship, and rotational opportunities to build versatile senior executives.

Why Join Us

Be part of a world-class team driving PepsiCo's sustainable growth in the dynamic food industry. Located in Purchase, New York, you'll collaborate with top talent in a collaborative, innovative environment. Influence global brands, tackle complex challenges, and contribute to a company that values purpose-driven leadership and positive planetary impact.

Role FAQs

What is the reporting structure?

This role reports directly to the SVP of Foods R&D and has a dotted line to the VP of S&PM, ensuring alignment across leadership teams.

Is relocation assistance provided?

PepsiCo offers competitive relocation support for qualified candidates relocating to Purchase, NY.

What systems will I work with?

Key systems include PLM, MyInnovation, Clarity, and other portfolio management tools integral to R&D operations.

Is this a hybrid role?

Yes, PepsiCo supports flexible hybrid work models for senior roles, balancing collaboration and flexibility.

This opportunity is ideal for seasoned R&D leaders ready to shape PepsiCo's Global Foods future. Apply today to join a legacy of innovation.