Overview:
The R&D Manager is responsible for leading and driving the research and development team for Kemin’s animal nutrition portfolio across Sub-Saharan Africa. The role is responsible for delivering innovative, science-based solutions that enhance animal health, feed efficiency, and customer performance, while ensuring alignment with global R&D strategy, regulatory requirements, and market needs.
Responsibilities:
R&D strategy and innovation
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Develop and execute the regional R&D strategy aligned with Kemin’s global innovation priorities.
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Identify opportunities for new product development in feed safety, milling optimization, feed additives, premixes, and nutritional solutions.
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Monitor industry trends (e.g. feed efficiency, gut health, mycotoxin management) and competitor activity.
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Collaborate with global R&D teams on innovation pipelines and product adaptation for the SSA market.
Product development and localization
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Lead KSSA’s product innovation pipeline for continuous improvement of our product portfolio
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Lead development, adaptation, and validation of products for local species and production systems (poultry, ruminants, swine, aquaculture where applicable).
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Oversee formulation, trial design, data analysis, and commercial readiness.
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Manage product lifecycle including reformulation, improvement, and discontinuation.
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Ensure scientific robustness and documentation to support product claims.
Trial management and scientific research
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Design and oversee in vivo and in vitro trials with research institutions, farms, and partners.
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Ensure trials meet scientific, statistical, ethical, and regulatory standards.
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Interpret trial results and convert data into actionable insights for commercial teams.
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Publish or present findings where appropriate to strengthen Kemin’s market credibility.
Leadership and team management
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Lead, coach, and develop the regional R&D team.
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Build strong scientific capability within the organisation.
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Support cross-functional knowledge transfer to commercial and technical services teams.
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Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
Regulatory, quality and compliance
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Ensure R&D activities comply with regulatory frameworks (e.g., feed additive regulations, registration requirements, applicable standards in SSA countries).
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Work closely with quality and regulatory affairs on product registration and claims substantiation.
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Maintain alignment with Kemin global standards, quality systems, and audit requirements.
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Ensure accurate, auditable documentation and data integrity.
Commercial and customer support
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Partner with commercial and technical services teams to support product positioning and differentiation.
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Translate technical data into customer-friendly value propositions.
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Support product launches, training, and customer trials.
Project and portfolio management
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Manage the R&D project portfolio, ensuring prioritisation aligned to business strategy.
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Track timelines, budgets, risks, and deliverables.
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Provide regular reporting and insights to regional and global leadership.
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Ensure efficient use of resources and return on R&D investment.
Qualifications:
- MSc or PhD in Science (Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology or related field)
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7–10 years’ experience in research and development.
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Proven track record of leading product development projects.
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Experience in a regulated environment (e.g., pharmaceutical, food, chemical, animal nutrition, manufacturing).
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Demonstrated people management and leadership experience.
Essential skills:
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Strong understanding of R&D processes and product development lifecycle.
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Familiarity with project management methodologies.
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Understanding of intellectual property and innovation practices.
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Awareness of industry trends and technological advancements.
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Strategic thinking and innovation leadership.
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Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
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Leadership and team development skills.
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Effective stakeholder engagement and influencing.
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High attention to detail and quality orientation.
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