Introduction

To ensure the production of safe, innovative and excellent product at a competitive price for the Woolworths customer

Job description

• Support the development of a customer-focused Technical strategy to support the WW Foods Strategy
• Lead and support the Groceries Team with the implementation of the category management plans
• Brand integrity, product safety and risk mitigation
• Ensure delivery of technically and commercially viable range of products that meets the needs of the Woolworths’ customer
• Operational excellence through the development of the technical guidelines, policies, and standards
• Communicate and manage all technical objectives and priorities to respective teams and key stakeholders
• Support the implementation of effective Food Safety & Quality protocols to ensure compliance to product specifications, Woolworths’ policies, Brand Integrity Plan and guidelines, industry standards and regulations
• Manage adherence to Woolworths’ Technical requirements and Good Business Journey (GBJ) across all products
• Manage and monitor technical function in order to meet Technical operating plan
• Product and process audits, including the formulation of specifications
• Quality monitoring and reporting
• Provide input into category, technical and supplier strategies, and implementation of technical aspects thereof
• Packaging development, with respect to legislation, nutritional aspects and shelf life

Minimum requirements

• B Tech. in Food Technology or  BSc Food Science
• Minimum 7 years relevant experience, long-life shelf stable product experience would be advantageous.
• Ability to work across a wide array of industries and large amount of suppliers
• Experience within the Retail environment would be advantageous
• Knowledge of technical processes and principles (incl. Safety and Legislation, eg. HACCP, GMP, Supply Chain, TACCP)
• Proven track record of relevant industry experience / knowledge on ambient thermal processing would be advantageous
• Technical product knowledge (including characteristics, raw material sourcing / manufacturing processes and quality / safety parameters) within ambient shelf stable products
• Knowledge of packaging functionality and application
• Ability to apply a project management approach for the delivery of key projects
• Ability to identify problems and implement effective solutions in collaborations with supplier base
• Well-versed in relevant legislation ability to play an influencing role.
• Team player with ability to work effectively with a diverse group of people
• Assertive communication skills and confident
• Quality / high standard mindset
• Innovation / continuous improvement mindset
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, pressurised environment
• Developed sensory skills
• Business acumen, judgment and problem solving ability
• Strategic development and planning skills
• Project management skills
• Networking and influencing skills
• Assertive communication and conflict handling skills
• Pro-active, innovative and entrepreneurial
• Flexible with ability and willingness to travel
• Ability to work productively in a stressful environment​