Your Mission
As an application specialist at Pirates, the primary focus is on product development and testing, verifying that innovations are commercially viable, and delivering customized solutions to address distinct client needs—particularly within the bakery, pâtisserie, and chocolate industries at an industrial scale.
What you do
Providing expert technical guidance to industrial bakeries and pâtisseries, ensuring optimal operational efficiency and product quality through specialized support.
Devise tailored solutions to address customer requirements and facilitate the seamless integration of products and concepts.
Forging enduring, strategic alliances with designated accounts represents a core responsibility of this role.
Assisting the Research and Development Director in advancing research initiatives and driving the creation of innovative products.
Collaborating with clients to discern their requirements and jointly develop customized solutions.
Spearheading initiatives to implement both current and innovative products across clients’ operational sites.
Translate the Pirates group’s New Product Development (NPD) guidelines to align with the Kenya market and facilitate the seamless introduction of new products through test baking, sample distributions, and staff training initiatives.
Identifying emerging business opportunities and mitigating risks within existing portfolios to enhance the business development team’s ability to meet sales objectives is a key responsibility.
Working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including local Technical, Marketing, and Sales colleagues, as well as our global and diverse network of Pirates associates, we employ advanced collaborative tools and leverage data analytics to drive shared objectives.
Stay current with evolving baking and ingredient trends while developing an in-depth familiarity with all Pirates product offerings.
Develop and nurture enduring partnerships with customers while cultivating a robust network of ingredient and equipment specialists within Pirates and across external channels.
What we expect from you
A bachelor’s degree in food science or a closely related discipline is required.
With at least five years of direct, practical involvement in the industrial bakery field, you possess the essential expertise required for this role.
You are deeply committed to culinary excellence and possess a steadfast dedication to ethical practices that prioritize the well-being of the planet and future generations.
A strong proficiency in pâtisserie automation, analytical methodologies, and new product development (NPD) processes is essential, along with an in-depth knowledge of ingredient functionality to formulate and enhance nutritious yet flavorful products.
Possesses in-depth knowledge of ingredient functionality, food additives, and core principles of food chemistry.
Proficiency in utilizing professional software tools, including customer relationship management (CRM) systems, spreadsheets, and presentation applications, is essential.
Proficiency in process and equipment operations, as well as finished goods management, is required.
Customer-focused professional with a keen aptitude for driving business growth and expanding market opportunities.
Proficient in transforming innovative conceptual designs into compelling, high-quality products while adhering to the constraints and processes of a large-scale manufacturing setting.
Proficient analytical abilities and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for this position.
Proficient in both written and verbal communication, with a talent for engaging and motivating customers.
A collaborative team member who demonstrates respect for colleagues, a willingness to assist others, an open mindset, adaptability, and humility.
A strong ability to plan and organize effectively, coupled with meticulous attention to detail, is essential.
The position requires the ability to travel as needed to fulfill job responsibilities, which may include occasional overnight stays or extended periods away from the primary work location. Candidates must demonstrate a willingness to accommodate travel demands, which can vary based on project requirements, client needs, or operational needs. Reliable transportation and adherence to company travel policies are essential for successful performance in this role.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 years
