R&D / Technical Manager

Job Purpose

Technical Manager in animal nutrition oversees the development, formulation, and quality control of animal feed products. This professional combines a strong scientific background with commercial awareness to optimize animal health and performance while providing technical support to customers and sales teams.

Key Accountabilities

Product development and formulation

• Research and apply knowledge of animal nutrition, metabolism, and physiology to create and develop balanced feed formulations for various species, such as livestock, poultry, and aquaculture.
• Evaluate and select raw materials based on nutritional content, quality, and cost.
• Use nutritional software to formulate rations and diets that maximize animal growth, reproduction, and health.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest nutritional trends, scientific research, and regulatory changes in the animal feed industry.

Quality assurance and technical support

• Manage the quality assurance process for both raw materials and finished feed products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.
• Provide technical support and advice to customers, distributors, and internal sales teams.
• Handle customer complaints and troubleshoot nutritional or feed-related issues in the field.
• Provide training and education to sales teams and external stakeholders on product use and nutritional concepts.

Research and development

• Design, execute, and analyze animal-based studies and field trials to evaluate new products or dietary regimes.
• Translate research findings and scientific insights into compelling technical and marketing materials for a commercial audience.
• Collaborate with internal R&D departments and external research institutions to drive innovation and product development.

Commercial and market strategy

• Collaborate with sales and marketing to define product positioning, develop new concepts, and launch products.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including farmers, veterinarians, and opinion leaders.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications and Knowledge

A bachelor's degree is required. A master's or PhD in Animal Science, Nutrition, or Veterinary Medicine is preferred.

Minimum Experience (no. of years)

Multiple years of practical experience in the animal nutrition or feed industry, with specific knowledge of certain animal species (e.g., poultry, monogastric, ruminant) desired.

Proven experience in a technical or technical-commercial role.

Job-specific Skills and Competencies

Technical and scientific skills

Deep understanding of animal physiology, biochemistry, and nutritional requirements.

Expertise in feed formulation and ingredient evaluation.

Knowledge of feed technology, processing, and mill operations.

Familiarity with regulatory frameworks for animal feed.

Strong analytical skills for interpreting nutritional data and conducting research.

Communication and leadership skills

Excellent communication and presentation skills for training teams, presenting research, and advising clients.

Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Leadership ability to manage teams and drive strategic initiatives

Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to address complex nutritional challenges.

Other requirements

Ability to travel to visit farms, customers, and industry events.

Proficiency in relevant computer software for formulation and data analysis.