Senior Technical Service Technologist, East Africa

About the role

Ingredion is seeking a Senior Technical Service Technologist to lead its Nairobi Idea Lab and support food manufacturers across East Africa. You will be the primary technical contact for key customers, driving innovation, troubleshooting, and cost‑optimisation while expanding the company’s technical capabilities in the region.

Key responsibilities

• Build trusted relationships with assigned customers and key accounts, providing expertise in ingredient application, formulation and new‑business development.
• Lead and further develop the Nairobi Idea Lab, overseeing pilot‑plant operations, product quality, food‑safety, hygiene and regulatory compliance.
• Coach and develop a small local Technical Service team, setting priorities and aligning resources with business goals.
• Plan and execute complex application trials, focusing on dairy and savory formulations while supporting other categories as needed.
• Evaluate customer formulations, equipment and processes to diagnose challenges and recommend science‑based solutions.
• Collaborate with commercial teams, distributors, suppliers and equipment partners to identify growth opportunities across East Africa.
• Document technical activities, communicate results to internal and external stakeholders and contribute to continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Degree in Food Technology, Food Engineering, Food Science or a related discipline.
• Several years of experience operating at a senior technologist level within the food industry.
• Proven ability to lead technical projects and mentor junior staff.

Required skills

• Ingredient application
• Formulation development
• Food process development and optimisation
• Food safety and regulatory compliance

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape food innovation in East Africa.
• Leadership of a dedicated Idea Lab and technical team.
• Collaboration with global experts and regional manufacturers.