Responsibilities:

• Introduce AFS products to potential clients and maintain client relationships (technical detailing and technical key account management)
• Identify client needs (with a key focus on retail customers)
• Offer technical assistance to AFS salespersons in sales processes
• Draw up shelf life testing protocols and oversee trials (in KZN, Eastern Cape and Western Cape), review and trend results, make recommendations
• Represent AFS and professionally liaise with industry key role-players e.g. SAMPA, CGCSA and SAFoST
• Continuous research and development (e.g. attend workshops/seminars, academic reading, reporting to R&D Team Leader)
• Conduct strategic product research and portfolio development
• Coordinate technical product quality control

The successful candidate must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Relevant tertiary qualification (BSc Food Science / BioChem / Microbiology / Medical Technology)
• At least 4 years’ experience in a similar role (Food Production / Product Development and Quality Control)
• Proven experience / network in the South African retail industry
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to analyse and interpret data and reports
• Highly organised and structured work ethic
• Work remotely (“virtual office”) and independently

The successful candidate will be required to travel frequently. A market-related remuneration package will be negotiated based on qualifications and experience. Only candidates fulfilling the requirements will be considered for the position.