Food Fortification Specialist at TechnoServe Kenya

Key roles and responsibilities;
Technical Duties

• Support the execution of stakeholder engagement and operational plan for program node
• Coordinate stakeholder convenings and sector-wide training, in collaboration with the Program Manager and in alignment with strategic objectives
• Work with selected food processors to identify their challenges to adequate fortification compliance, support assisted companies with solutions to address these challenges and coordinate with Strategic Fortification Partners (SFPs) to execute Techincal Assistance (TA)
• Identify common fortification challenges and work with the TAAP team to support the design and delivery of sector-wide training workshops to strengthen these gaps
• Review, monitor, and report on all programmatic activities including periodic progress, and financial reports, ensuring strict compliance with Techno’s objectives, strategies, policies and procedures. Make appropriate recommendations on the implementation plan

Key Organizational Relationships

• The Food Technologist will report directly to the Program Manager on strategic issues related to work planning, targets, budgets, staff and program delivery
• The Food Technologist will receive technical oversight and support from the Program Manager and the Strategic Fortification Partners (SFP) with respect to training and technology transfer to assisted companies

Skills & Attributes

• Food processing experience, preferably in staple foods, with an understanding of quality management, food regulatory compliance and fortification technology
• Strong project management and strategic thinking abilities
• Analytical mind and commitment to quality; rigorous approach with a high level of attention to detail.

Core competencies

• Proven ability to work in an environment requiring collaboration with the private sector, government, and national and international organizations
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Flexible, proactive, goal-oriented and with a willingness to travel in challenging environments.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
• Ability to use initiative, prioritize, multi-task, and work well under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Clear and systematic thinking that demonstrates good judgment, problem-solving, and creativity
• Organizing, planning and time management
• Teamwork/relationship – works cooperatively and flexibly with other members of the team with the full understanding of the role to be played as a team member or leader

Required skills and experiences:

• At least 3 years of experience working in the food industry for either the private sector or implementing on behalf of a development program, with strong quality management experience a must
• Managerial experience, including supervision of staff, budget management and use of project management systems
• Bachelor’s in Food Technology, Nutrition, or food industry related fields; Master’s preferred
• Computer literacy with excellent Excel, MS Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint skills
• Excellent command of spoken and written English is essential
• Working knowledge of Swahili is highly desirable
• Ability and willingness to travel both locally and abroad