Group Research and Development Specialist

Duties and responsibilities

The role supports the GCMO/GCOO and supports seven (7) operating countries in managing category product development, technical and production projects. Evaluates current and alternative food ingredients, create product recipe and conduct sensory evaluation of new food products to ensure to meet customer needs and requirements. Responsible for managing and training of laboratory technicians. Participates on cross functional group teams to ensure effective resolution of technical issues and support product innovation. Provides periodical assistance to group QA teams.

Principal Accountabilities

40% - Supports cross functional team, sensory evaluation, and reformulation of current products.
Agent for continuous improvement, drives results and assist in problem solving/root cause investigations of production problems.
25% - Assist the implementation of actions plans and problem resolutions related manufacturing, production equipment issues, factory deployment, OOE Improvement
15% - Conducts, assist and support product development, support PMO teams 
10% - Trains new and current group members.
5% - Contribute to Group Technical Committee
5% - Other duties as required.

Main indicators of performance are sales and profitability growth of the category, OOE, Product Quality performance indicators, successful projects execution, and perceived added value to the operations and the group.

Requirements

Demonstrated Product Development Knowledge (10+ years of production or R&D/QC laboratory experience). 
10 years degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or applied science OR an AS degree and 7 years + years of quality, R&D or manufacturing experience. 
Medium to advanced scientific and food technology knowledge. 
Basic to moderate knowledge of food regulations with specific emphasis on nutritional labelling, natural food ingredients, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). 
Medium to advanced computer skills (word processing, spreadsheets, and database navigation), knowledge of Sage and R&D Genesis programs are desirable, but not necessary. 
Familiarity with laboratory procedures & equipment: pH-meter, Refractive Index, Brookfield 
viscosity, Colorimeters, and Sensory testing. 
Experience in applying project management skills. 
Pilot plant equipment experience
Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills. 
Demonstrated strong organizational skills and attention to detail.  
Travel Requirements: 30%

Scope

Manufacturing: 7 production and packing Opsco (Nigeria, Ghana, Malda Pack, Boksburg, Kenya, DRC, Angola)
Product Development