Technical Manager

My client, The National Chamber of Milling, was founded in 1936 . The Chamber serves as the exclusive trade association for South African millers, advocating for and advancing the industry's collective interests. Representing approximately 80% and 40% of the total wheat and maize processed for human consumption in South Africa respectively, it plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient production of high-quality, nutritious, and safe staple foods. Additionally, the Chamber fosters an environment that allows all maize and wheat processors to thrive, grow, and remain competitive.

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What is the purpose of this role?

The Technical Manager is tasked with managing the technical and regulatory functions effectively and efficiently, aligning with NCM's Memorandum of Incorporation and the strategic goals established by the Board of Directors. The primary focus is on ensuring food safety, quality, and security for both raw material commodities and processed products.

What will this person be responsible for?

1. Effective and efficient management of the committee structure

• Develop the committee’s terms of reference
• Ensure sufficient representation and active participation
• Draw and execute the technical committee operational activity plan.
• Management of the overall functioning of the committee

2. Stakeholder engagement and representation

• Liaison roles with government and industry value chain on relevant matters.
• Representation at various technical and regulatory structures e.g. Maize & Wheat industry Steering & Technical Committees, Food Safety Forum, Fortification Working Group, Industry Working Group on Inspections, etc.
• Maintain and strengthen existing collaboration with relevant government departments, e.g., DOA, DOH, DST, etc.
• Member consultation and needs identification. Liaise with the Training Committee on mutually beneficial synergies, e.g., milling industry skills need.

3. Drive food safety and quality imperatives

• Identify and pursue research needs and priorities on grains and processed products, particularly on food safety, quality of maize & wheat quality.
• Develop research proposals and funding applications to different trusts in consultation with the committee, e.g. grain infestation, mycotoxin development.
• Liaison with SAGL on new projects and monitor existing ones being conducted e.g. post mycotoxin storage survey, maize cooking textural properties, maize maturing & ageing during storage, maize quality, grain infestation, allergens research, fortification, etc.

4. Pursue legislative and regulatory matters of interest to the milling industry

• All legislative and regulatory frameworks applicable to grains and milled products, e.g. APS Act, Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, Consumer Protection Act, Health Act, maize and wheat grading regulations, maize and wheat products regulations, grains & products inspections, labelling regulations, fortification regulations, etc.

5. Establish and manage compliance and quality assurance systems

• Develop, introduce, and manage compliance audit and guidelines
• Liaison with industry structures on the introduction and management of the passport system

6. Regular reporting to the Executive Director as well as feedback to the Board.

The following are MINIMUM Qualification, Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Values needed to meet the expectations of this role:

•Milling qualification: SAGMA/GMF Advance Milling and Trade Tested/Swiss Milling School.
•Degree in Food Science, BTech or diploma in food technology with may be considered.
•Minimum 10 years’ experience in the milling industry, with 5 years in a wheat or maize mill or both.
•Knowledge of legislative and regulatory frameworks for grains and milled products.
•Familiarity with food safety aspects, including the understanding of GMP, PRP & HACCP
•Proven managerial track record and demonstrated leadership ability
•Excellent computer skills: Proficiency in Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.
•Communication and interpersonal skills as well as collaborative management style.
•Knowledge in financial controls, including formulation of project budgets and oversight
•Project development and management expertise (R&D processes).
•Demonstrated professional and ethical standards in a diverse workplace
•Knowledge of governance and compliance procedures in the milling industry
•Attention to details, accuracy, facts, and thoroughness.
•Assertive, diplomatic and ability to provide guidance as well as make recommendations
•Self-motivated, capable of working independently and delivering on time
•Sound analytical and decision-making skills
•Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Join my client as a Technical Manager and lead the way in shaping the future of food safety and quality in the milling industry