R&D / Technical Manager

Matar Al Baqmi Holding Company; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in animal nutrition in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Technical Manager to oversee the development, formulation, and quality assurance of animal feed products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background coupled with commercial acumen, providing vital support to sales teams and customers. Responsibilities include formulating balanced feed, managing quality processes, and collaborating on market strategies. A bachelor's degree is essential, with a master's or PhD preferred. Multiple years of industry experience required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, Master's or PhD preferred.
• Multiple years of experience in animal nutrition or feed industry.
• Proven experience in a technical role.

Responsibilities

• Oversee development and quality control of animal feed products.
• Formulate balanced feed for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture.
• Manage quality assurance for materials and products.
• Provide technical support and training to stakeholders.
• Collaborate on product strategy and market trends.

Skills

Animal physiology understanding

Feed formulation expertise

Analytical skills

Excellent communication

Leadership skills

Problem-solving skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's or PhD in Animal Science, Nutrition, or Veterinary Medicine (preferred)

Tools

Nutritional software

Job description

Job Purpose

Technical Manager in animal nutrition oversees the development, formulation, and quality control of animal feed products.

This professional combines a strong scientific background with commercial awareness to optimize animal health and performance while providing technical support to customers and sales teams.

Key Accountabilities

• Product development and formulation
• Research and apply knowledge of animal nutrition, metabolism, and physiology to create and develop balanced feed formulations for various species, such as livestock, poultry, and aquaculture.
• Evaluate and select raw materials based on nutritional content, quality, and cost.
• Use nutritional software to formulate rations and diets that maximize animal growth, reproduction, and health.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest nutritional trends, scientific research, and regulatory changes in the animal feed industry.
• Quality assurance and technical support: Manage the quality assurance process for both raw materials and finished feed products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.
• Provide technical support and advice to customers, distributors, and internal sales teams.
• Handle customer complaints and troubleshoot nutritional or feed-related issues in the field.
• Provide training and education to sales teams and external stakeholders on product use and nutritional concepts.
• Research and development: Design, execute, and analyze animal-based studies and field trials to evaluate new products or dietary regimes.
• Translate research findings and scientific insights into compelling technical and marketing materials for a commercial audience.
• Collaborate with internal R&D departments and external research institutions to drive innovation and product development.
• Commercial and market strategy: Collaborate with sales and marketing to define product positioning, develop new concepts, and launch products.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including farmers, veterinarians, and opinion leaders.

Minimum Qualifications and Knowledge

• A bachelor's degree is required.
• A master's or PhD in Animal Science, Nutrition, or Veterinary Medicine is preferred.

Minimum Experience

Multiple years of practical experience in the animal nutrition or feed industry, with specific knowledge of certain animal species (e.g., poultry, monogastric, ruminant) desired.

Proven experience in a technical or technical-commercial role.

Job-specific Skills and Competencies

• Deep understanding of animal physiology, biochemistry, and nutritional requirements.
• Expertise in feed formulation and ingredient evaluation.
• Knowledge of feed technology, processing, and mill operations.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks for animal feed.
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting nutritional data and conducting research.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for training teams, presenting research, and advising clients.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Leadership ability to manage teams and drive strategic initiatives.
• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to address complex nutritional challenges.
• Ability to travel to visit farms, customers, and industry events.
• Proficiency in relevant computer software for formulation and data analysis.