Research and Development Manager

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

• Develop and execute the regional R&D strategy aligned with Kemin’s global innovation priorities.
• Identify opportunities for new product development in feed safety, milling optimization, feed additives, premixes, and nutritional solutions.
• Monitor industry trends (e.g. feed efficiency, gut health, mycotoxin management) and competitor activity.
• Collaborate with global R&D teams on innovation pipelines and product adaptation for the SSA market.

Product development and localization

• Lead KSSA’s product innovation pipeline for continuous improvement of our product portfolio
• Lead development, adaptation, and validation of products for local species and production systems (poultry, ruminants, swine, aquaculture where applicable).
• Oversee formulation, trial design, data analysis, and commercial readiness.
• Manage product lifecycle including reformulation, improvement, and discontinuation.
• Ensure scientific robustness and documentation to support product claims.

Trial management and scientific research

• Design and oversee in vivo and in vitro trials with research institutions, farms, and partners.
• Ensure trials meet scientific, statistical, ethical, and regulatory standards.
• Interpret trial results and convert data into actionable insights for commercial teams.
• Publish or present findings where appropriate to strengthen Kemin’s market credibility.

Leadership and team management

• Lead, coach, and develop the regional R&D team.
• Build strong scientific capability within the organisation.
• Support cross-functional knowledge transfer to commercial and technical services teams.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.

Regulatory, quality and compliance

• Ensure R&D activities comply with regulatory frameworks (e.g., feed additive regulations, registration requirements, applicable standards in SSA countries).
• Work closely with quality and regulatory affairs on product registration and claims substantiation.
• Maintain alignment with Kemin global standards, quality systems, and audit requirements.
• Ensure accurate, auditable documentation and data integrity.

Commercial and customer support

• Partner with commercial and technical services teams to support product positioning and differentiation.
• Translate technical data into customer-friendly value propositions.
• Support product launches, training, and customer trials.

Project and portfolio management

• Manage the R&D project portfolio, ensuring prioritisation aligned to business strategy.
• Track timelines, budgets, risks, and deliverables.
• Provide regular reporting and insights to regional and global leadership.
• Ensure efficient use of resources and return on R&D investment.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Science (Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology or related field)
• 7–10 years’ experience in research and development.
• Proven track record of leading product development projects.
• Experience in a regulated environment (e.g., pharmaceutical, food, chemical, animal nutrition, manufacturing).
• Demonstrated people management and leadership experience.

Essential skills: 

• Strong understanding of R&D processes and product development lifecycle.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies.
• Understanding of intellectual property and innovation practices.
• Awareness of industry trends and technological advancements.
• Strategic thinking and innovation leadership.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Leadership and team development skills.
• Effective stakeholder engagement and influencing.
• High attention to detail and quality orientation.

#LI-KK1