Process Technology Lead

We have a fantastic opportunity for a Process Technology Lead to join the team at our unique site in Menstrie, a large fermentation facility with hundreds of unit operations and SKU’s.

You will be a thought-leader in the field of fermentation technology, with core expertise in fermentation engineering and yeast physiology. Working across cross-functional teams spanning Manufacturing, Process Sciences, Supply Chain, Finance and R&D, a key deliverable of this role is to define and track key-performance indicators (KPIs) and oversee continuous improvement programs to ensure industry-leading fermentation performance.

You will lead and participate in new product & process technology projects, coordinate product introductions & commercialization and lead or participate in innovative interdepartmental and global teams. Lead and/or participate in RCAs as needed.

Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier, and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you with opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

Our Safety purpose: At Kerry, we work together in a caring culture where everybody goes home safely every day. We are committed to providing a safe working environment and ensuring that all safety protocols are strictly followed. Join us in creating a workplace where safety is everyone's responsibility.

• Develop end to end expertise of all process technology deployed at our Menstrie manufacturing location
• Be a thought leader for fermentation technology that helps define and shape continuous improvement strategies and plans through deep expertise in fermentation engineering and microbial physiology.
• Define KPIs for each fermentation process on site. Launch and oversee projects to drive continuous improvement of KPIs.
• Lead a team of Process Technologist to maintain and communicate control charts of fermentation KPIs that can be used to identify opportunities for improvement
• Lead and support optimisation initiatives to increase yield, reduce cycle time, reduce costs and enhance safety and product quality
• Collect and analyse process data statistically and build models to support process decisions and continuous improvement.
• Provide subject matter expertise in aseptic design and SIP and CIP systems to reduce contamination and improve bioburden control
• Support downstream operations (centrifugation, filtration, spray drying, evaporation) to ensure reliable and high-performing operations.
• Support and execute successful tech transfer to manufacturing partners including SOP’s, equipment qualification and training.
• Work cross-functionally with RD&A, QA/QC, engineering, production and strain teams; translate customer and internal requirements into actionable plans.
• Mentor and coach junior scientists and technologists through both formal and informal leadership.
• Maintain rigorous documentation of methods, results and SOP’s; contribute to IP capture and patent support.
• Consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to both lab and process safety.
• Adhere to and promote biosafety, hygienic design and quality management standards (e.g. BSL-2, GMP, FSMA, HACCP, ISO food-grade).

• Ideally PhD qualified in Biochemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Fermentation Engineering, or a related technical degree.
• Proven industry experience.
• Strong background in fermentation, biochemical engineering and aseptic design.
• Expertise in yeast fermentation is highly desired.  
• Excellent problem solving skills.
• The ability to work with cross-functional teams at multi levels within the organization.
• A strong background in data analysis and statistics is strongly preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication skills

In Kerry we know that sometimes the perfect candidate doesn’t exist, and people can be put off applying for a role if they don’t fit all the requirements. If you are excited about working for us and have the majority of the skills or experience, then please do apply as you could be exactly what we are looking for.

In return we can offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package as well as the opportunity for self-growth and career development within one of the world’s leading manufacturers of food and nutrition technology.

In Kerry we benefit from the knowledge of our colleagues who bring a diverse range of cultures, backgrounds, lifestyles, and experiences. One team fostering an inclusive culture that, above all, inspires food and nourishes life. One culture where everyone brings their unique perspectives and experiences to help make us better, together. We are committed to nurturing an environment of positivity and inclusiveness, where everyone can be at their best, both personally and professionally.

Our recruitment, selection and assessment process are based on the skills and competencies of the specific roles and based entirely on merit.  We are committed to and value Diversity and Inclusion in all recruitment processes within Kerry and do not discriminate based on gender, race, class, economic status, ethnic background, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, veteran status, marital status, or any other protected characteristic.