Research & Development Manager

Position: Research & Development Manager (Edible Oils)

Industry: Manufacturing (Edible Oils & Soaps)
Location: Athi River Nairobi Kenya
Gross Salary: KES. 100000

About the Company

Our client is a leading manufacturing company in the edible oils and soaps industry known for delivering high-quality consumer products and continuously innovating to meet evolving market needs. The company is driven by a strong culture of innovation quality and continuous improvement.

Role Overview

Are you passionate about turning ideas into real products that end up on store shelves

The Research & Development Manager is a key innovation driver within the business responsible for developing new products improving existing formulations and exploring better raw materials and suppliers.

This is a hands-on fast-paced role where science meets creativity. You will work across product development plant trials supplier collaboration and market insights to bring impactful innovations to life.

If you enjoy solving problems experimenting with ideas and seeing your work transform into real consumer products this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

Product Innovation & Development

• Transform ideas into new product concepts with real market potential
• Lead end-to-end product development projects from concept to launch
• Conduct hands-on prototype testing and plant/pilot trials
• Develop detailed BOMs and product specifications

Product Improvement & Optimization

• Improve existing products to enhance quality performance and customer satisfaction
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across formulations and packaging

Supplier & Raw Material Innovation

• Identify and develop alternative suppliers for raw and packaging materials
• Support supply chain resilience through material diversification

Process Development & Improvement

• Design and implement process improvement initiatives
• Lead trials to test and validate process efficiency and effectiveness

Market & Consumer Insights

• Conduct competitor benchmarking and market visits
• Analyze consumer trends to inspire innovation and product positioning

Technical Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate structured R&D documentation across all projects
• Ensure all developments meet regulatory statutory and quality standards

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Production and Quality teams during trials and investigations
• Support root cause analysis and resolution of product or material issues

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Analytical Chemistry Chemical & Process Engineering Food Science & Technology or related field
• Certification in Project Management is an added advantage
• 25 years experience in R&D or product development in manufacturing
• Strong understanding of product formulation BOMs and technical specifications
• Knowledge of ISO standards and KEBS requirements
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving ability
• Creative mindset with a passion for innovation
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

Work Environment

• Dynamic mix of office work plant trials and field/market visits
• Hands-on role involving active participation in product testing and development

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications via the companys career page.

Application Deadline: 8th May 2026

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.