Our Client is a pioneering joint venture transforming the global B2B agri-food sector with premium citrus and tomato concentrates, multi-fruit purées, IQF fruits and vegetables, and freeze-dried strawberries using Egyptian raw materials and exporting mostly in Europe. 

This Role of Chief Innovation & Quality officer is both critical and urgent, and will consider any nationality, a top candidate (preferrable European)  that is willing to relocate to CAIRO - EGYPT. 

Essential selection criteria are the sector TOP SENIOR required experience and of course, the motivation to join!

 

Basic responsibility:

The Chief Innovation & Quality Officer (CIQO) will report to the group CEO and will manage a direct team of Research & Development Director, Quality Control Manager, HSE Manager, Quality Assurance & Regulatory Affairs Manager, Sustainability Manager.

The CIQO will lead the quality enhancement and regulatory compliance within the organization, and play a crucial role in driving innovation.

The CIQO is responsible for developing and implementing strategies that ensure product innovation, sustainability, and excellence in quality. This role supports the company's growth through continuous improvement of products, processes, and compliance, with a strong focus on sustainable practices.

Accountability & Responsibility

 

Scope of Accountability

Drive the development and execution of comprehensive Research & Development, Quality Control, and Quality Management strategies aligned with the overarching business objectives, encompassing continuous product improvement, innovation, sustainability initiatives, adherence to food quality standards, and compliance with both national and international regulations.

 

Main Tasks

 

Duties include, but are not limited to the following:

 

Set the strategic direction for sustainable product innovation, spearheading the development of new products and production methods that align with global trends. Work closely with the CEO, and the Senior Leadership Team to ensure alignment of innovation and quality strategies with the company’s business objectives. Foster a company-wide culture that encourages creativity, experimentation, and cross-functional collaboration, prioritizing innovations that cater for targeted markets. Study the market and consumer trends, analyse competitors’ strategies, and understand the regulatory landscape to identify and align new product developments with market needs. Lead the quality strategy to ensure that products meet or exceed regulatory and consumer standards. Establish and maintain robust quality control processes, including inspection, testing, and troubleshooting, to ensure that products consistently meet or exceed established quality specifications. Collaborate with Chief Manufacturing Officer to set product specs that meet customers’ requirements while maintaining cost and improving productivity. Lead the Quality Assurance & Regulatory Affairs team in navigating regulatory landscapes and ensuring compliance with all relevant food safety standards. Manage regulatory affairs to secure timely product approvals, certifications, and compliance, avoiding potential regulatory roadblocks and accelerating entry to international markets. Lead the Sustainability initiatives by developing and implementing sustainability-driven quality standards that ensure eco-friendly production processes, reduce waste, and promote responsible sourcing throughout the supply chain. Develop strategies to adapt to external challenges like climate change impacts, supply chain volatility, or shifts in consumer preferences, so the organization remains resilient. Lead the HSE team in designing and implementing safety protocols that comply with regulations and promote a culture that nurtures people safety and care for the environment. Lead the selection and integration of AI solutions to optimize quality related processes, enhance operational efficiency, and drive data-driven decision-making across the unit. Engage with external stakeholders, including suppliers, regulatory bodies, and industry partners, to foster relationships that support sustainable innovation etc

Required Profile

 

Education

 

Master’s degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, or a related field.

 

Experience

 

MUST HAVE - 20+ years of experience in R&D, quality management, and regulatory affairs with at least 7 years in senior leadership position.

Compulsory experience in the agri-food industry with a focus on fruit concentrates, IQF, and Freeze Dry is a must. Proven track record in leading innovation, quality assurance, and sustainability initiatives.

 

Technical Competencies

Food Science & Technology Expertise: Mastery of food processing techniques and ingredient functionality to ensure product safety and quality. Research & Development (R&D) Management: Capability to lead R&D projects that develop innovative products aligned with market demands and sustainability. Quality Assurance: Proficiency in establishing and managing comprehensive Quality Management Systems and Food Safety Systems that meet international standards and ensure product consistency. Quality Control Practices: Expertise in implementing and maintaining quality control best practices to ensure product consistency, safety, and regulatory compliance. Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge: Expertise in food laws, labelling, and global standards to ensure products meet regulatory requirements. Sustainable Product Development: Ability to innovate products using sustainable practices, eco-friendly materials, and minimal waste. Sensory Evaluation & Consumer Testing: Deep understanding of sensory tests and consumer evaluations. Data Analytics & Digital Innovation: Competence in utilizing data and digital tools to optimize product quality, forecast trends, and drive innovation. Project Management: Proficient in coordinating cross-functional projects to deliver innovative products on schedule and within budget. Supply Chain Quality Integration: Understanding of the entire supply chain to ensure consistent quality from sourcing to final delivery.

 

Leadership Competencies

Strategic Focus: Set and communicate a clear strategic direction that aligns with the organization's vision, mission, and goals. Team Leadership and Alignment: Foster a cohesive team leadership team, align cross-functional efforts, and inspire collaboration to work toward shared goals. Change Leadership: Encourage transformational initiatives and effectively lead the organization through change. Innovation: Nurture a culture of creativity and encourage new ideas/ways to solve challenges and drive growth. People Development: Foster a culture of continuous learning, encourage mentoring and coaching programs, and prioritize employee growth and development opportunities. Drive & Execution: Set ambitious goals, promote a results-oriented culture, and ensure strategies are translated into actionable plans and goals are achieved efficiently. Collaboration & Inclusion: Build strong relationships across functions and creating a culture where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated. Customer Centricity: Establish a customer-focused culture, drive strategies that prioritize customer needs, and ensue long-term value.

 

Languages

Proficient in English Proficient in Arabic, is a plus

Other Requirements

Work based in a corporate office. Travel is required.