Manages and conducts routine, non-routine and complex research and development activities concerned with the chemical, biological and/or physical nature of food in order to evaluate and improve the quality of existing products and related processes and to develop new products and processes. Development Manage and conduct routine, non-routine and complex research and development activities concerned with the chemical, biological and or physical nature of food to evaluate and improve the quality of existing products and related processes and to develop new products and processes with specific and extensive knowledge focus on Value Added Bakery (VAB) categories and/or technologies: frozen bakery and desserts, and ice cream. Ensure assigned projects are completed in accordance with established timelines, budgets and quality expectations. Keep abreast of new developmentsin the industry, more specifically with respect to frozen bakery desserts and ice cream products, and packaging systems and methods. To drive continuous research on cost and recipe improvement. To provide technical assistance for inquiries from customers, as well as the Sales, Marketing and Manufacturing departments. Ensure that accurate, up-to-date records, laboratory notebooks and formula/spec database are kept. Develop and execute research programs designed to result in new or improved products. Implement all technical aspects of a project and ensure that all assigned projects proceed according to plan. Manage and conduct multiple, independent and complex research and/or development projects - project planning, execution, timing, functionality, quality and cost. Defines project objectives, organize and prioritize tasks and conducting experiments and analyses. Lead, train and mentor Technicians and interns, provide technical advice to others within specialty. Interface frequently with various internal departments (e.g. Marketing, Procurement, Engineering, Quality Assurance and Operations), and customers in accomplishing project milestones. Ensure that Associates understand the business plans, the link with corporate business strategies, and the role of each Associate in accomplishing these plans. Prepare prototype products using research lab, pilot lab, manufacturing facilities and equipment, as required. Provide solutions to a wide range of difficult problems. Essential Pre-requisites: National Diploma in Food Technology, BSc Food Science or equivalent Minimum 5 years expereince in a similar position. Good analytical and problem-solving skills. Computer literate and MS Office proficient. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to plan workloads effectively to meet deadlines
