Specification Management Lead

Role overview

This position leads the full specification management lifecycle, from creation through implementation and ongoing upkeep, so that product specifications remain accurate, current, and aligned with quality standards and regulatory expectations. Based in Singapore, the role works closely with R&D teams across Asia and Europe and supports collaboration with local, regional, and global partners.

The ideal candidate is proactive, results-oriented, comfortable handling complex data, and able to work effectively across multiple stakeholder groups.

Leadership and strategy

You will guide the R&D specification management function across operating companies, ensuring alignment with business priorities and the global PLM way of working. This includes leading the rollout of PLM specification practices across BG Asia operating companies, acting as the main point of contact for specification-related ways of working and system enhancements at BG level, and representing BG Asia in the Global Specification Management Community. You will also provide functional supervision to a regional group of specification specialists.

Systems and digital transformation

This role supports digital transformation efforts aimed at automating and simplifying specification processes. You will own the BG Asia specification portfolio from an R&D perspective, ensuring all data remains current, high quality, compliant with regulations, and consistent with the company’s quality standards. You will also develop and review procedures, work instructions, and training materials.

Process improvement and implementation

A key part of the role is identifying opportunities to improve workflows, reduce manual effort, and strengthen data management through automation. You will contribute to new system design and be responsible for rolling out solutions within BG Asia R&D, including the design of practical ways of working with relevant stakeholders.

Cross-functional collaboration

You will work with teams such as Digital, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Regulatory Affairs, and Supply Chain to make sure specifications meet both operational needs and compliance requirements. The role also involves building effective collaboration models that improve efficiency and support adoption of new processes and tools.

Key user leadership and document management

As BG Asia key user lead, you will build capability and knowledge among key users in the operating companies, while providing technical support to local key users and regional end users. You will also develop and maintain a strong digital document management setup for storing, retrieving, and sharing information efficiently.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in food science, dairy technology, engineering, chemistry, or another relevant science discipline is required. The role calls for at least 8 years of experience in specification management within the FMCG sector.

Strong knowledge of SAP PLM modules, especially Specification Management, is important, and experience as a super user is preferred. You should be skilled in managing data within a complex system, and familiarity with dairy industry requirements for product development and lifecycle management would be an advantage. Experience improving specification management processes is also valued.

Behavioral competencies

Success in this role depends on strong leadership and stakeholder management across regional and global teams, along with the ability to create a collaborative environment that supports innovation and knowledge sharing. You should be able to handle resistance, encourage adoption of new tools and processes, and promote continuous improvement and agile thinking.

Excellent communication skills are needed for working with diverse stakeholders. The role also requires a strong process mindset, confidence in structured governance, comfort with digital tools, analytical thinking, and an ability to simplify complex systems while seeking automation opportunities. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong time management are important, especially when working under pressure and meeting demanding priorities.

What the company offers

You will be based at the Development Centre Singapore as part of the BG Asia R&D team. The environment is cross-regional, with colleagues in Asia and Europe and supplier partnerships worldwide.

Compensation is determined by the job level, your experience, and your training. The company also provides training and on-the-job education. FrieslandCampina emphasizes shared responsibility, career ownership, and contributing to a broader purpose through work that supports people, communities, and sustainable impact.