Process Technology Lead - Probiotics and Postbiotics

About Kerry

It’s an exciting time to join our growing team at Kerry and we are hiring a Process Technology Lead with focus on Probiotics and Postbiotics. The successful candidate will be a thought-leader in the field of fermentation technology, with core expertise in the development and manufacturing of probiotics. The candidate must also possess strong people leadership skills and be able to work across cross-functional teams spanning Manufacturing, Process Sciences, Supply Chain, Finance and R&D. A key deliverable of this role is to further develop our probiotics manufacturing technologies to ensure our industry-leading fermentation performance. Expertise in fermentation data analysis and scientifically robust decision making is key to success in this role. The candidate will lead and participate on new product & process technology projects, coordinate product introductions & commercialization and lead or participate on innovative interdepartmental and global teams. Lead and/or participate in RCAs as needed. 

About the role

Key Responsibilities

• Provide end to end expertise of all probiotic and postbiotic manufacturing processes at Kerry

• Be a thought leader for fermentation technology and probiotic manufacturing that defines and shapes continuous improvement strategies and plans through deep expertise in fermentation engineering and microbial physiology.

• Lead and support optimisation initiatives to increase CFU count, reduce cycle time, reduce costs, improve scalability and enhance safety and product quality

• Define KPIs for each fermentation process. Launch and oversee projects to drive continuous improvement of KPIs.

• Collect and analyse process data statistically and build models to support process decisions and continuous improvement.

• Provide subject matter expertise in aseptic design and SIP and CIP systems to reduce contamination and process robustness

• Support downstream operations (centrifugation, filtration, freeze drying, spray drying) to ensure reliable and high-performing operations.

• Support and execute successful tech transfer to manufacturing partners including establishing SOP’s, equipment qualification plans and training programs.

• Work cross-functionally with RD&A, QA/QC, engineering, production and strain teams; translate customer and internal requirements into actionable plans.

• Mentor and coach junior scientists and technologists through both formal and informal leadership.

• Maintain rigorous documentation of methods, results and SOP’s; contribute to IP capture and patent support.

• Consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to both lab and process safety.

• Adhere to and promote biosafety, hygienic design and quality management standards (e.g. BSL-2, GMP, FSMA, HACCP, ISO food-grade).

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Fermentation Engineering, Microbiology or a related technical degree minimum.
• 10 years of related professional experience
• Strong background in fermentation, biochemical engineering, microbiology and aseptic design. Expertise in probiotics is highly desired.  
• Problem solving skills.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams at multi levels within the organization.
• Strong background in data analysis and statistics is strongly preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication skills

About Kerry:

The typical hiring range for this role is $140,467- $244,122 annually and is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, location, etc.  In addition to your pay, Kerry offers benefits such as a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and retirement contribution (all benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements).