Research and Development Manager at AACE Food Processing & Distribution Limited (AACE Foods)

AACE Foods is into food processing, packaging, marketing and distribution of nutritious and tasty products made from the best of West Africa’s fruits, herbs, vegetables and cereals. The main product lines consist of spices, spreads, sauces and complimentary food that excite and satisfy institutional, commercial and retail customers across Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Research and Development Manager

Location: Ogun
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

• The R&D Manager reports to the Technical Manager and will lead our product development initiatives and ensure regulatory compliance for AACE Foods.
• He/She will work with stakeholders across the organization to drive innovation, enhance product quality, and expand our product portfolio to meet market demands and regulatory standards.
• This is a cross-functional role that aims to bring disciplines together to sign off on each aspect of a new product introduction. An innovator and facilitator with a creative but practical disposition.

Responsibilities
He/She will:

• Lead the development of new food products from concept through to commercialization, focusing on product quality, nutrition, and market trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify new product opportunities, refine existing products, and ensure they meet company objectives.
• Coordinate product testing and pilot trials to ensure feasibility, quality, and cost- effectiveness.
• Oversee sensory evaluation panels to assess product attributes.
• Establish and standardize sensory protocols to ensure consistency and reliability in product testing.
• Analyze sensory data to identify potential product improvements and optimize formulations.
• Ensure that all new and existing products comply with local and international food safety and regulatory standards.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory changes affecting food products and processes.
• Prepare and submit regulatory documents as needed, ensuring compliance throughout the product lifecycle.
• Develop and implement R&D processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Analyze production processes to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices in food processing and quality control.
• Work with Quality Assurance and Production teams to align R&D efforts with operational goals.
• Promote a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and best practices in food science and technology.
• Conduct market research and collaborate with the Marketing team to gather insights on consumer preferences and industry trends.
• Use insights to inform product development strategies, ensuring products meet consumer expectations and market demands.
• Analyze competitor products and industry developments to stay ahead in the food processing sector.

Experience

• First degree in Food Science and Technology or related fields. Relevant certifications will be an advantage.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in R&D within the food processing industry, with a focus on new product development and sensory analysis.
• Strong understanding of food safety, regulatory compliance, and quality control standards.
• Proficiency in sensory analysis techniques, product formulation, and R&D methodologies.

Skills:

• Creativity and the ability to think outside the box.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and ‘influence’ more than direct
• Fast-paced and analytical.
• Team player with good communication skills.
• Excellent leadership skills.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified. 

How to Apply
Interested and qualified canddiates should send their CV to: [email protected] using the Job Title as the subject of the email.