In the world of talent acquisition, Grapefrute, Talent Acquisition partner for R&D and Innovation in Life Sciences & Consumer Goods stands out for its commitment to excellence and deep industry insight. Together with Bart Jeurissen and Sylvia Balguid, the founders of Grapefrute, we discuss their perspectives on talent acquisition and the trends they foresee in 2025.
Navigating through recruitment challenges
The talent acquisition landscape, especially for specialized R&D roles, presents its own set of challenges. One significant hurdle is the scarcity of highly educated professionals, including engineers, technologists, and scientists. “Finding R&D specialists in areas like flavours, texture, fermentation, and extraction requires a nuanced approach,” Sylvia Balguid explains. Grapefrute’s extensive experience, spanning over two decades in international recruitment, equips them to meet these demands effectively. Their profound knowledge of the R&D landscape, including its structures, terminology, typical projects, and the technologies used in sectors like food, beverages, cosmetics, pharma, and consumer health, allows them to swiftly and accurately address client needs.
The allure of specialized R&D, Food and Flavour roles
Sylvia has a culinary passion; therefore, she finds a unique connection between her hobby and talking to candidates. “Engaging with candidates who are deeply involved in product development or the enhancement of food and flavours often provides me with ‘aha’ moments, which I recognize from tasting food and experimenting with different flavours and textures,” she shares. This intrinsic curiosity drives Sylvia to delve deep into each role, ensuring a comprehensive understanding that goes beyond the conventional. “We don’t settle for 75% accuracy; our goal is to present candidates who are a 100% match,” she emphasizes.
Bart Jeurissen echoes this sentiment, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of innovation. “Innovation is a continuous journey, always open to enhancement,” he remarks. His fascination with the transformation of raw materials into ingredients and final products fuels his dedication. “The industry is critical, considering aspects like raw material origins, sustainability, and due diligence,” Bart notes. Engaging with idealists in R&D provides him with fresh perspectives and reinforces the importance of their work.
Innovation vs. Renovation in 2025
Because of high raw material prices and production costs, 2024 was a bad year for the consumer goods industry, resulting in many reorganisations, hiring- and investment stops across the industry. The focus of innovation is also undergoing a transformation. “In 2025, we expect that there will be a greater emphasis on renovation rather than pure innovation,” Bart predicts. This approach involves enhancing existing products and leveraging current technologies and ingredients to develop new offerings. “It’s about reformulating—creating new product formulations through ingredient modification, process adaptation, hybrid products, or repositioning technology,” he elaborates.
Relocation and market dynamics
The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped many aspects of the professional world, including candidates’ willingness to relocate. “We’ve observed shifts in relocation readiness post-COVID,” Bart notes. Additionally, the FMCG sector experienced significant disruptions in 2024, with numerous reorganizations, investment halts, and hiring freezes. However, there is optimism on the horizon. “We anticipate a gradual recovery in 2025,” he adds.
Grapefrute’s distinctive approach
What truly sets Grapefrute apart starts with an effective intake process. Afterwards, they make a strategic roadmap, tailored to each vacancy. “Our intake involves asking the right questions to streamline the process, clarify the job, and, when necessary, challenge assumptions with logic and facts,” Bart explains. This method ensures a transparent and efficient recruitment journey, benefiting both clients and candidates.
In essence, Grapefrute’s dedication to understanding the complexities of specialized R&D roles, combined with their adaptive strategies in response to industry trends, positions them as a leader in talent acquisition for R&D, Life Sciences and Consumer Goods. Their passion, expertise, and forward-thinking approach continue to drive success in these dynamic markets.
At Grapefrute, we don’t just spot trends—we help you act on them. If you’re interested in sparring about these insights or want tailored advice to elevate your recruitment strategy, we are here to help so contact Bart Jeurissen whenever you want. Let’s work together to find and retain the talent that drives your company’s growth and innovation.
