Manager Food Production

NSF is a global public health and safety organization committed to improving human and planet health. We provide testing, inspection, certification, training, and advisory services across food, water, health sciences, and sustainability sectors, supporting clients in over 170 countries.

We’re looking for a strong, commercially aware leader to head up our Food Production business across Africa.

This role leads our Certification and Supplier Assurance services, along with Advisory, Training, and Technical Services. You’ll be responsible for delivering performance against business goals while building a high-performing, engaged team.

Responsibilities: Business & Delivery

• Lead the Food Production business across Africa to deliver against annual operating plans
• Oversee Certification, Supplier Assurance, Advisory, Training, and Technical Services
• Ensure high-quality, on-time service delivery aligned with customer and scheme requirements
• Drive operational performance, cost efficiency, and continuous improvement
Monitor and report on KPIs and service levels

Client & Market

• Build and maintain strong client relationships
• Handle escalations and resolve client issues effectively
• Support business development, working with Sales and Marketing to identify growth opportunities
Maintain strong relationships with scheme owners (e.g. BRCGS, IFS, FSSC)

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical direction to audit and operational teams
• Support auditors and ensure alignment with relevant standards
Ensure compliance with accreditation and regulatory requirements

People leadership

• Lead, develop, and coach a team (approx. 10 direct reports)
• Build a high-performance, accountable team culture
• Support talent attraction, development, and retention
Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and values-led environment

Health, Safety & Culture

• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with HSSE requirements
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across the team

Qualifications: Experience & Background

• Degree in Food Science or a related field
• Proven experience in a food technical leadership or business management role (5+ years)
• Strong understanding of food safety standards (e.g. BRCGS, FSSC, IFS)
• Experience working with clients in food production or supply chain environments
Track record of leading teams and delivering business results

Skills

• Strong commercial and business acumen (including P&L awareness and forecasting)
• Ability to build and maintain client relationships
• Confident communicator, able to engage teams and stakeholders clearly
• Strong leadership and coaching capability
Practical, solutions-focused mindset

Other

• Willingness to travel across South Africa and the wider region
Valid driver’s licence

Why join NSF?

You’ll be joining a purpose-driven organisation focused on improving food safety and public health globally. We’re committed to building a high-performing, values-led culture where people are empowered to grow and make an impact.

More information about NSF can be found at nsf.org.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives: Please note that NSF is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and search firms for this role. Resumes submitted to an NSF employee by a third-party agency without a valid written and signed search agreement between NSF and said third-party agency will become the sole property of NSF. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you. #LI-CS1