Head of Grain Processing Innovation/ R&D Center at Buhler Nigeria

Tasks

• Conceptualize, plan, execute and manage Buhler Application Center for Local Grains (maize, sorghum, millets, local wheat, fonio, soya, beans, etc.)
• Greenfield project: Bring idea of Buhler Grain Processing Innovation Center to reality and establish the knowledge and application hub for Local Grains in Kano, Nigeria.
• Full oversight of Buhler Grain Processing Innovation Center in project phase and afterwards in conceptual, technical, and financial/commercial aspects.
• Build partnerships and collaborations to drive innovation in Local Grains.
• Engage with local and international stakeholders, Foundations etc. on partnering and utilization of the center.
• Plan, conduct and analyse application tests in close collaboration with internal and external partners (new grains, new/simplified processes, new finished products)
• Develop, plan, market and execute professional and vocational training offerings.
• Promote Grain Innovation Center in the market and guarantee full utilization with trainings and application tests
• Drive sales of trial and training offerings.
• Sales support for Ancient African Grains milling solutions.
• Strict financial control of all related costs (e.g. project management, civil structures, labour, energy and operations)
• Work within the companies EHS policies and promote the same.
• Ensure excellent stock control and reconciliation within all aspects of the operation.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in milling industry; working in multicultural environment is an advantage.
• Bachelor’s degree in Milling Science, Food Manufacturing, Food Technology, Engineering, or related field.
• Certificate from the Swiss Milling School or African Milling School or equivalent is an added advantage.
• Advanced NABIM qualification or above, HACCP and IPM trained.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Grains and Food processing.
• Strong leadership and people development skills.
• Excellent knowledge of sales and relationship management.
• Strong sales conversations and contract negotiations skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to interface effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Great multicultural understanding.
• Ability to work in a matrix organization.

Benefits

• International and successful company with sustainable prospects for the future.
• Wide technically and modern environment with interesting challenges.
• Professional environment with an open communication culture.
• Exciting development and training opportunities.
• Great and dynamic work environment.