Research and Development (R&D) Manager. at Haco Industries Kenya Limited

Position Description

To champion and manage the operations of the Research and Development function, take a key role in NPD projects (Innovation & Renovation), carry out consumer focused market exploratory research and bench marking activities geared towards cost saving initiatives and gaining a competitive edge in the market.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities include but not limited to:

1. Lead and manage the R&D Department.
2. Develop New Product Formulas & BOMs.
3. Carry out lab scale stability samples and initiate stability test programs for the same.
4. Co-ordinate the processing of validation batches of the new product and progressive testing of the same.
5. Testing of new raw materials to make sure they are within expected specifications.
6. Coordinate the bench marking activities for the HACO brands against competition as to identify opportunities to capitalize on.
7. To carry out benchmark tests on quarterly basis involving all our products against competition.
8. Carry out consumer focused market exploratory research to establish consumer insights, needs, trends etc.
9. Continuous system improvement and process re-engineering.
10. Ensuring adherence to standard manufacturing procedures and practices for the new and existing products.
11. Explore possibilities of using same or similar material for some specific products or maintain one grade across board in line with the product specifications, material costs and inventory holding levels.
12. Train support staff on any new requirements for processing & packaging of the newly introduced products.
13. Drive high performance behaviour and tools for alignment, clarity, and focus.
14. Develop and drive compliance culture.
15. NPD skills enhancement through training.

MINIMUM FORMAL QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:

1. Degree in Analytical, Industrial or Applied Chemistry or Science Laboratory Technology with relevant experience (FMCG) to be considered.
2. Further relevant qualification-Production management (Preferably in a chemical manufacturing environment).

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:

TECHNICAL/OPERATIONAL COMPETENCIES

1. In-depth understanding of business processes and principles.
2. In-depth understanding of Product forms, starting materials and their manufacturing process.
3. Knowledge on basic product formulation and development process.
4. Knowledge on packaging components and their development process.
5. Ability to provide an inter-phase between procurement and manufacturing in sourcing of required material and components.
6. Understanding of statutory and legislative requirements.
7. Understanding of manufacturing, purchasing and logistics principles.
8. Project Management Skills.
9. Excellent computer skills-strong working knowledge of ERP systems.

MINIMUM YEARS EXPERIENCE IN TECHNICAL/OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT

1. At least 3-4 years of experience in a Technical / Operational role in an FMCG preferably a chemical manufacturing environment.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

1. Excellent team player with unquestionable integrity.
2. Dynamic & result oriented.
3. Have analytical, interpersonal & strategic leadership skills.
4. Coordinating, planning, and organising ability.
5. Attention to detail.
6. Reliable, assertive, resourceful & focused.
7. Negotiating Skills.
8. Strong personal values &character.