Title:  Manager, Processing Technologist

Title: Process Technologist Manager

Function & Business Unit: AMEA Snacks Research & Technology

Location: Singapore

Reports to: Associate Director, Process Innovation

Global Level: GL3

The Process Technologist acts as a link between Innovation workstream and Manufacturing team, responsible for commercializing new innovations into Enstek & Chonburi’s plant. Working closely with product developers on ensuring prototype specifications are defined correctly to produced products that meets quality & scalability. Process Technologist also defines material & process specification ranges for optimization performance & quality. This role is based in Enstek, Malaysia and supports the Pringles brand across Asia, Middle East, and Africa (AMEA), acting as a technical resource and strategic partner to cross-functional teams.

A Taste of What You’ll Be Doing

Business Growth Drives

Leads commercializing solutions for new process/material innovations into manufacturing facilities.

Define, plan & execute packaging trials with R&D developers & Manufacturing team to validate performance, quality, efficiency & stability.

Identifies & resolves technical & material issues during commercialization.

Creates process material & process specifications for the plant during handover. 

Collaborate with Product Developers, Process Innovation, engineers, supplier & Manufacturing to ensure smooth project handover.

Supports continuous improvement & standardization of process process & material quality specification.

Leadership

Functions as a Program/Project Manager, Planner, Coordinator, Communicator, and Technical Expert.

Provides strategic input to cross-functional teams and influences decision-making through technical insights.

Innovation / Creativity

Identifies & implements process productivity & sustainability improvements workstreams.

Collaborate with suppliers and global resources for scaling new process solutions.

Technical Expertise

Serves as the subject matter expert in process engineering (equipment & process flow), raw material specification & Pringle chip finish goods quality.

Maintains up-to-date knowledge of current operational process technology & finished process quality performance.

People Management

Manages 1 direct reports, setting performance expectations, conducting evaluations, and supporting career development.

Other Duties

Based in Enstek Malaysia, with travel (~20%) to manufacturing sites, suppliers, and regional offices.

May require extended hours, shift work, or weekend support depending on project needs.

Occasional hands-on operation of process equipment.

We’re Looking for Someone With

Essentials

1. Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Chemical, Process, Mechanical, or Food), Food Science/Process /Technology degree or any related field.
2. Minimum 7–8 years’ experience in process development or manufacturing within the food industry. Past managerial experience is preferred.
3. Fluent in Bahasa Melayu & English language.
4. Technical & Process Knowledge

• Strong understanding of food/process engineering principles (e.g., heat transfer, powder flowability, mass balance, rheology, fluid dynamics, drying, mixing, extrusion, etc.).
• Experience with scale-up from lab/pilot plant to full-scale production.
• Knowledge of manufacturing systems, automation, and equipment capability.
• Familiarity with process validation (CQV – Commissioning, Qualification, Validation).

5. Commercialization & Project Execution

• Able to translate R&D prototypes into commercially viable and scalable processes.
• Competence in trial planning, DOE (Design of Experiments), and data analysis to optimize processes.
• Experience with equipment commissioning, line trials, and factory acceptance testing (FAT/SAT).
• Understanding of manufacturing cost drivers and process efficiency. (OEE, yield loss, etc)

6. Cross-functional Collaboration

• Excellent communication with R&D, Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams.
• Comfortable to work with local shop floor operators, technicians & supervisors.
• Skilled in writing process documentation, SOPs, and handover reports.
• Ability to translate & transfer trial information to production teams for post-commercialization.

7. Problem-Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Analytical mindset – uses data and root cause analysis to troubleshoot process issues.
• Applies Lean / Six Sigma / Kaizen principles to drive improvement and waste reduction.

8. Innovation & Equipment Development

• Experience in new equipment evaluation and innovation trials.
• Comfortable working with vendors and machine suppliers to co-develop or modify process equipment.

Desirable

1. Experience in snacks, baking process or frying/dough making systems.
2. Experience with Minitab or any data analysis, statistical, process improvement tool.
3. Knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and regulatory compliance for food or pharma.
4. Experience working with suppliers and external partners on pro technology development.
5. No/minimal dietary restrictions.

Dimensions

- Manages 1direct reports.

- Supports a US$250Mn regional business.

Key Relationships

1. 1. Reports to Sr. R&T Manager, AMEA Snacks.
   2. Collaborate with Marketing, R&T Technologists, Project Managers, Sensory, Regulatory, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, and Sales.
   3. External contacts include packaging material suppliers, equipment vendors, co-manufacturers, consultants, and research organizations.

What’s Next

After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. Visit our How We Hire page to get insights into our hiring process and more about what we offer.

Need assistance throughout the application or hiring process? Email INSERT RECRUITMENT EMAIL.

If you join our team, you’ll be rewarded for the difference you make. Our comprehensive benefits offer you the support you need through your life events, big or small. Visit our benefits page & be sure to ask your recruiter for more specific information.

Get to Know Us

At Kellanova, we are driven by our vision to be the world’s best-performing snacks-led powerhouse, unleashing the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our portfolio of iconic, world-class brands includes Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others.

Our focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) enables us to build a culture of belonging where all employees have a place at the table and are inspired to share their passion, talents and ideas to work.

Mars has agreed to acquire Kellanova in a combination that will shape the future of snacking! The transaction is anticipated to close within the first half of 2025 (subject to Kellanova shareowner approval and other customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals). The companies remain separate until closing.

You can learn more at www.futureofsnacking.com , and our hiring teams will be happy to discuss further questions if your application advances in the hiring process.

About Kellanova AMEA

Home to 75% of the world's population and contributing to 50% of the global GDP, the AMEA region represents a vast and promising market for Kellanova. This region provides an extensive geographic presence and holds substantial growth potential, especially considering our diverse portfolio spanning multiple categories.

AMEA is strategically positioned for growth, positioning itself to become a prominent player in the snacking industry while maintaining a steady trajectory of cereal growth. As we expand our product range, reach new geographic horizons, and increase investments in emerging markets within AMEA, you have the opportunity to become an integral part of a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. We are deeply committed to investing in our people and enhancing our capabilities to deliver value to our stakeholders.

The best brands. The best people. The best you.

Let’s shape the future of snacking.

What does it take to be the best? Someone like you

Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, please visit our website here.