Title:  Cider Cellar & RTD Blender

We Go Places! How about you?

Location: Kiambu
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Supply Chain - Production
Type of Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 06-06-2025

Join KWAL and be a part of something bigger, as we accelerate excellence as a proud member of the HEINEKEN global family.  While we unlock new opportunities and shape the next chapter of our journey, KWAL is embedding a high-performing, agile business driven by innovation and purpose. If you're energized by transformation and inspired to make a meaningful difference, this is your moment to lead change and grow with a business that’s going places – fast!

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for the primary manufacturing of liquid intrinsics to deliver sufficient ciders and RTD bulk liquid for packaging in Line 1 at the specified quality. The job holder is responsible for the execution, control, and actualization of cider and RTD manufacturing plans in alignment with KWAL and Heineken's overall organisational goals and objectives.

Main Responsibilities

Liquid manufacture 

• Carry out sensory evaluation of raw materials and processed water before use in Primary Manufacturing. Carry out sensory analysis of converted liquid at various steps of manufacturing to ensure quality consistency is maintained throughout the manufacturing cycle.
• Convert raw materials into ready-to-package cider beverages in compliance with Standard Recipes, Quality Specifications, Product Legal Standards, Food Safety Standards, Heineken Standards while applying good manufacturing practice.
• Determine initial raw material quality for all inputs before conversion and input data in blending recipes to establish the bill of materials required per batch of liquid to be manufactured.
• Verify inputs to ascertain correct quantities and quality is loaded into blends.
• Evaluate process inputs, tanks, equipment, and final product to ensure the desired quality and food safety is achieved and maintained.
• Evaluate information, process, and people to determine compliance with standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events, people, or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards or food safety requirements.
• Review and monitor critical control points (CCPs)/Operational prerequisite programs (OPRPs) to ensure controls are maintained within required limits and necessary verifications are carried out to ensure compliance with food safety requirements.
• Monitor and control liquid conversion efficiencies: Speed, cost, quality to ensure effective conversion of liquid Manufacturing Process.
• Carry out ERP System transactions: Job Creation, raw material transfers/issuance, job labor posting, job completions, bulk issuance to packaging jobs, System Stock Take, while maintaining traceability of issued materials and liquid bulk.
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work: Develop specific work plans necessary to support liquid manufacturing in line with Packaging Plans.Work with warehousing and procurement departments to ensure required inputs are available in line with liquid Manufacturing Plans.
• Establish the root causes of problems relating to equipment, process, or product manufactured in respective units.
• Participate in continuous improvement programs for primary manufacturing, quality, sustainability, namely, water conservation, energy efficiency, and recycling, which are critical for effective/efficient operations.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency improvements through regular participation in problem-solving sessions.

Compliance and Safety

• Process, verify information and data related to products/raw materials issued for use during Primary Manufacturing: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information necessary for use as reference to assure safety of use of ingredients before application in bulk liquid manufacturing process.
• Maintain integrity, quality, safety, consistency, and sterility of the processing environment/equipment.
• Maintain confidentiality of product formulations.
• Review activities carried out by contractors and visitors in Cellar to ensure compliance with Heineken Safety Standards.
• Support safety programs and policies to safeguard product and personal safety, company property, environmental, and team member’s safety.
• Identify, report workplace hazards and follow up for permanent removal.
• Follow site safety rules.
• Report incidents, accidents, near misses, and unsafe behaviors in the workplace.
• Uphold Heineken Safety Commitments.

TPM and Continuous Improvement

• Support the TPM way of working.
• Support the implementation of the improvement activities.

Team Leadership

• Coordinate the work and activities of Cellar Process Operators and other Winery Team Members to achieve expected output: Getting members to work together in DCS and accomplish targets/tasks.
• Interpret the meaning of information to Cellar Operators and General Workers: Translating formulations, Work Instructions, Procedures, Policies, Guidelines to enhance swift application of the same in Winery processes.
• Guide, direct, and motivate subordinates: Provide guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
• Participate in continuous learning and professional development activities to stay updated with industry trends and best practices.

Minimum Required Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Food Science and Technology, Industrial Chemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology or related Field 

Experience 

• At least 4 years experience in a similar role

Competencies

Technical Competencies

• Know-how of legal standards for the various product categories
• In depth Primary Manufacturing knowledge and applicable Heineken standards
• Know-how of requirements of various standards; -ISO 9001;2015, ISO 22000:2018; Kenya’s National Food  Safety Policy; and Heineken Standards
• Proficient use of MS packages and ERP systems.

Behavioural Competencies

• Utilize analytical skills to identify issues and develop effective solutions. This involves a methodical approach to troubleshooting, ensuring minimal disruption and optimal outcomes.
• Exhibit strong self-awareness and empathy, effectively managing personal emotions and understanding those of others. This fosters a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Support the professional growth of employees through guidance and feedback. This involves sharing knowledge and expertise to help others reach their full potential.
• Encourage innovative ideas and approaches to improve products and processes. This involves fostering a culture of creativity and experimentation to stay ahead in the market.
• Demonstrate a commitment to enhancing processes and performance. This involves regularly evaluating current practices, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing changes to drive efficiency and effectiveness.
• Communicate effectively with diverse audiences, ensuring clarity and understanding. This includes using appropriate channels and styles to convey messages and actively listening to feedback.

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) was incorporated in 1969 and over the years KWAL has become a leading East African beverage champion in the manufacturing, exporting and importation of a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. KWAL is a HEINEKEN OpCo.