Food Safety Assurance Manager Job Vacancy in Kitale, Kenya – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Job Description

Position: Food Safety Assurance Manager

Company: Nestlé Kenya

Location: Kitale, Kenya

Experience: 5+ years in food safety and quality assurance

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Nutrition, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Department: Quality Assurance

Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Nestlé Kenya is a leading multinational food and beverage company with a legacy of delivering nutrition, health, and wellness solutions across the African continent. Operating for decades in Kenya, Nestlé has established state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities, a robust distribution network, and a commitment to sustainable practices that support local farmers and communities. The Kitale plant, strategically located in the heart of Kenya’s agricultural belt, specializes in the production of coffee, cereals, and dairy‑based products, contributing significantly to the nation’s food security and export earnings. As part of its growth strategy, Nestlé Kenya continuously seeks top talent to drive innovation, uphold the highest safety standards, and reinforce its reputation as an employer of choice. This role offers a unique opportunity for professionals passionate about food safety to shape the future of a globally recognized brand while advancing their career within a dynamic, inclusive, and forward‑thinking environment. Kenya Jobs seekers looking for challenging positions will find this posting aligned with their aspirations for career development and impact.

Job Overview

The Food Safety Assurance Manager will lead Nestlé Kenya’s food safety program at the Kitale facility, ensuring compliance with local regulations, international standards such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and Nestlé’s internal policies. Reporting to the Head of Quality Assurance, the manager will oversee risk assessments, audit preparations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role is pivotal in safeguarding product integrity, protecting consumer health, and maintaining the brand’s trust. Candidates will collaborate closely with production, R&D, supply chain, and regulatory affairs teams to embed a culture of safety throughout the organization. For more information about Nestlé’s commitment to excellence, visit Kenya Job Search. This position is a cornerstone of our hiring in Kenya, reflecting our dedication to creating meaningful career opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) in alignment with HACCP, ISO 22000, and local food safety regulations.
• Lead internal and external audits, ensuring timely resolution of non‑conformities and continuous improvement.
• Conduct risk assessments for new products, processes, and supplier materials, providing clear mitigation strategies.
• Train and mentor cross‑functional teams on food safety principles, fostering a proactive safety culture.
• Monitor critical control points (CCPs) and key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive performance excellence.
• Collaborate with R&D to integrate safety considerations into product development cycles.
• Manage incident investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective action plans.
• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior management, regulatory bodies, and external stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging food safety trends, regulations, and best practices to ensure Nestlé remains a leader in the industry.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, and Kenyan food safety legislation.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven mindset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Proven leadership experience in managing multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to influence and drive change across complex organizational structures.
• Proficiency in audit management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Nutrition, Microbiology, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified HACCP Trainer, ISO 22000 Lead Auditor, or equivalent are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in food safety, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance within a manufacturing environment, preferably in the food & beverage sector. Experience managing large‑scale audit programs and leading cross‑functional projects is essential.

Salary

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary ranging from SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with performance‑based incentives.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and parental leave policies.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities for international assignments and career progression.

Training

• On‑the‑job training in Nestlé’s global food safety standards.
• Access to continuous learning platforms and professional development courses.
• Support for obtaining industry‑recognized certifications.
• Leadership development programs tailored for high‑potential managers.

Working Environment

Nestlé Kenya offers a collaborative, inclusive, and safety‑first workplace where diversity of thought is celebrated. The Kitale facility features modern production lines, advanced laboratory equipment, and a supportive community of professionals dedicated to excellence. Employees enjoy a balanced work‑life environment, with flexible scheduling options and a culture that encourages innovation and personal growth.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal on our website. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Kitale plant.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Nestlé Kenya is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. This job vacancy in Kenya reflects our ongoing commitment to hiring in Kenya and providing career opportunities for all.