IEC Cocoa Butter Technology Manager

Role Description

This position is a part of the Ingredient Excellence Center (IEC) that represents a team of technical experts responsible for innovation projects focusing on creating value through ingredient functionality and processing technology for ofi Cocoa.

It is a full-time opportunity that has arisen for the IEC team. The position is part of Research and Development focused on processing technology at ofi Cocoa. In this role, you will pursue and test new technology or digitization solutions and optimize current production lines. You will scout the world for new concepts and turn them into solutions from pilot scale to industrial-scale products and/or technologies.

Key Deliverables

Reporting to IEC lead Ingredient, your responsibilities include:

• Manage R&D projects, aiming for product innovation; play a key role in shaping the future of the product portfolio for the early stage of innovation.
• Together with several stakeholders, you design and lead R&D projects, which start with idea generation and finish with the successful implementation in the factories, including possible IP/patents
• Design and execute experiments in the lab and pilot plant independently and/or together with the technicians
• Set clear timelines and objectives to maintain quality and speed, to introduce innovation successfully;
• Provide technical support, based on solid technical and scientific information, enabling knowledge building, decision making, and successful implementation;
• Build a network with institutes and suppliers who are at the forefront of food manufacturing.
• Collaborate with different departments, testing the performance of new ingredients in consumable products as well as defining gaps or improvements in the current ingredient portfolio
• Inspire your teammates, finding the best solution for complex questions. You take ownership to improve the performance in project execution and the success rate through facts and figures
• Share your vision and achievements by presenting and inspiring at all levels in ofi (Cocoa)
• This position requires occasional travelling.

Candidate Profile

• A MSc degree in Food Technology, Chemistry, or Biotechnology;
• At least 3 years of research experience with edible oils and fats;
• Significant experience in experimental design, execution, and analysis of complex data;
• Is a self-starter with a hands-on approach and can-do mentality
• Strategically minded, capable of integrating inputs from multiple stakeholders and experts;
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and support decision‑making;
• Strong communication, presentation, and social skills: is proficient in spoken and written English, and Dutch is a plus.