Senior Application Specialist

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in flavors and fragrances seeks a Senior Application Specialist in Cape Town. You will develop technical partnerships with key customers, deliver product presentations, and drive innovation in the food ingredients sector. This role requires over 10 years of experience in the industry and a degree in Food Science or a related field. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Career advancement opportunities

Work-life balance support

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in the food, pharmaceutical, ingredient, or flavor industry.
• At least 5 years of expertise in the relevant application area.
• Strong problem-solving skills and creativity.

Responsibilities

• Build strong technical partnerships with key customers.
• Develop and deliver compelling product presentations.
• Identify new business opportunities.

Skills

Technical partnerships

Product presentations

Business development

Collaboration

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Food Science or related field

Job description

Senior Application Specialist

Location: Cape Town, South Africa (Onsite)

Job type: Full-time, posted today.

Job Overview

IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences, we deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. This role sits within our Food Ingredients Business Unit, where we focus on creating solutions that deliver improved nutritional profiles, exceptional taste and texture, and greater cost efficiency—helping global food and beverage manufacturers meet evolving consumer needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Build strong technical partnerships with key customers, conducting trials and presenting innovative concepts.
• Develop and deliver compelling product and ingredient presentations to customers.
• Identify new business opportunities while defending existing accounts.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, and other functions to ensure seamless project execution.
• Lead technical strategy initiatives and contribute to global innovation programs.
• Design and optimize finished product formulations to meet industrial standards and client requirements.
• Mentor and train junior team members and technical/commercial staff.
• Investigate and resolve technical challenges related to raw materials, prototypes, and scale‑up processes.
• Maintain a safe, organized lab environment while documenting activities and reporting progress.

Qualifications

• Degree in Food Science, Technology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in the food, pharmaceutical, ingredient, or flavor industry, with a strong baking background.
• At least 5 years of expertise in the relevant application area and experience leading cross‑functional teams.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, creativity, and ability to work independently on high‑value projects.
• Willingness to travel locally and across the African subcontinent as needed.
• Comfort working in a lab environment, with the ability to navigate ambiguity while remaining self‑driven and highly motivated.

What We Offer

Join a global leader in food innovation and ingredient solutions. Influence product development and contribute to market‑shaping innovations. Engage in impactful projects with real‑world applications. Access opportunities for learning, career advancement, and personal growth. Enjoy competitive compensation and benefits designed to support your well‑being.

EEO Statement

We value a diverse mosaic of ethnic background, national origin, race, age, gender, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace where every colleague can bring their authentic self to work, regardless of religion, gender identity, expression, sexual orientation, or disability.