About the role

As an R&D Manager, you will be responsible for leading the end-to-end development of health supplements for pets, ensuring that the product portfolio aligns with market needs, scientific advancements, and regulatory requirements. You will be tasked with driving the innovation process, from concept to commercialization, and ensuring that the formulations meet high standards of palatability, digestibility, and efficacy. In addition, you will work closely with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, including researchers, veterinarians, and industry associations, to ensure product safety, traceability, and regulatory compliance in global markets.

You are offered:

• A very competitive salary with comprehensive benefits, including occupational healthcare with dental coverage and Smartum vouchers
• A flexible hybrid work model, allowing you to balance office and remote work
• An international and collaborative team environment with opportunities for professional growth
• Travel opportunities for supplier meetings, research collaborations, and industry events

Work tasks

• Lead the development of new health supplements from concept to commercialization
• Drive both New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) processes to ensure market competitiveness
• Stay up-to-date with global pet health trends, regulatory changes, and scientific advancements
• Collaborate with internal teams (Sales, Marketing, Procurement, Production) to bring new products to market
• Ensure compliance with global regulatory standards (EFSA, FDA) and work with relevant quality teams to maintain product integrity

We are looking for

• Degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, Food Science, Human Nutrition, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in pet health supplements, animal nutrition, veterinary product development or human nutrition
• Proven track record of formulating, testing, and launching nutritional products or supplements
• Understanding of nutritional and non-nutritional supplement regulations (e.g., FEDIAF, AAFCO, EFSA, FDA)
• Strong interest in pet health and well-being
• Fluency in English with excellent collaboration skills

Fluency in Finnish is highly beneficial, and proficiency in other languages is considered an advantage.

To succeed in the role, your personal skills are:

• Strong desire for personal and professional growth, continuously seeking opportunities to develop
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility with both internal and external stakeholders
• Confident, with a strong presence and the ability to engage others, even in challenging situations

Our recruitment process

This recruitment process is handled by Academic Work and it is our client’s wish that all questions regarding the position is directed to Academic Work.

Our selection process is continuous and the advert may close before the recruitment process is completed if we have moved forward to the next phase. The process includes two tests: one personality test and one cognitive test. The tests are tools to find the right talent for the right position, to enable equality, diversity, and a fair process.

Olini Oy

Olini Oy is part of the Petbuddy Group, a company committed to improving the well-being of pets and their owners through innovative and sustainable products. With a global presence, Petbuddy Group offers a wide range of premium pet care brands, including Nutrolin®, all focused on delivering high-quality nutrition and care for pets worldwide.

Nutrolin®, created by the family-owned Finnish company Olini Oy, offers scientifically developed fatty acid supplements for dogs, cats, and horses. Inspired by Penni, a Parson Russell terrier, Nutrolin® was founded to enhance pet well-being with products developed by Dr. Mikko Griinari, a Cornell-educated expert in fatty acids. These high-quality products have roots in academic research and a deep love for animals, reflected in the story of Penni and the dedication of their team.