Senior Director II, Functional Research, Application & Ingredient Delivery
Location(s) : United States of America
City / Cities : Atlanta
Travel Required : 0% - 25%
Relocation Provided : Yes
Job Posting End Date : November 9, 2025
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.
Key Responsibilities
- 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 stakeholdersincluding suppliers, universities, and technology partnersto co-develop cutting-edge functional ingredient solutions.
- 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.
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.