Akshat Ashar

About Akshat Ashar

Innovative and results-driven R&D professional with proven expertise in end-to-end…

Experience

1. Research & Development Executive

   Baskin Robbins, India

   Aug 2024 — Present · Pune, IN

   Spearheaded end-to-end product development and commercialization for Baskin Robbins, Monginis, Rebel Foods, Third Wave Coffee, Pret, and private labels like Zepto & Big Basket. Delivered 25+ SKU innovations including Rebel Kesar Thandai, BR High-End Cakes, Iranian Pista Kulfi Roll & more — strengthening pipelines and showcasing cross-brand versatility.Created full-scale formulations, evaluation reports & costings to enable confident go-to-market decisions. Led Centric PLM implementation, improving system usability and aligning workflows with business needs. Revamped the R&D lab into a modern, café-inspired space without disrupting operations.Engineered cost-optimized recipes using local ingredients while maintaining flavor parity. Resolved formulation & packaging conflicts, negotiated 5% mould cost reduction & 70% MOQ drop, saving 20%+ in tooling. Eliminated slicing losses & fixed packaging fitment issues for smooth launches.Introduced trend-driven flavors like Vietnamese Coffee, Pistachio Baklava & Cotton Candy with natural colors. Transitioned BR’s ice cream range to fully natural, FSSAI-compliant colors with heat-stable, sensory-matched alternatives.Managed pilot-to-commercial trials, trained plant teams & implemented zero-defect launch processes. Developed naming conventions for new SKUs via structured research. Provided technical support, samples & costing sheets to accelerate decision-making.Maintained QC standards, supported audits & ensured regulatory compliance. Earned food safety certification and pioneered innovative ice cream formulations aligned with consumer trends.

Education

• LASEA, Jhalawar

  Senior Secondary School

• LASEA, Jhalawar

  Secondary School

• Jaipur National University

  Bachelor of Technology