Rania Abou Samra was the Global Head of Product & Technology Development and Head of R&D, U.S. for Nestlé Health Science, overseeing innovation and strategic growth initiatives at a global scale. Rania is currently the Head of Innovation and R&D in Nestlé MENA. With a strong background in technical and scientific expertise, Rania drives innovation forward to advance nutrition and positively impact lives through science.
In January 2022, Rania assumed her role as Global Head of Product & Technology Development, following her tenure as Vice President of Research and Development at the Vital Proteins brand of the business, and drawing on over 20 years of experience in nutrition and research and development. Rania's professional journey includes her previous position as Global Director of Science and Technology at NHSc and Global R&D lead for Consumer Care. Across various Nestlé research centers, she lent her expertise to diverse sectors. Her core competencies lie in translating scientific and technical insights into breakthrough innovations for both patients and consumers.
Originally hailing from Lebanon, Rania pursued her education with determination. She earned her bachelor's and master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from the American University of Beirut, and later, her PhD in Appetite Regulation and Nutrition from the University of Toronto. Beyond her professional endeavors, Rania's passion for nutrition extends to her family life, where she enjoys preparing traditional Lebanese cuisine for her son. Her unwavering commitment to bringing the benefits of nutrition to all remains a driving force in her personal and professional pursuits.