Front End Innovation Manager

About the role

Nestlé Research and Development Center for Sub Saharan Africa, based in Abidjan, is looking for a Front End Innovation (FEI) Manager. The role leads a team and acts as the innovation contact point with regional stakeholders such as Business Executive Officers, CMI, Zone Category leads, Market Heads and NPTC front end innovation leads.

Key responsibilities

• Lead Front End Innovation performance for Sub Saharan Africa.
• Support and build high-quality innovation pipelines with the markets, validating opportunity areas and concepts.
• Be accountable for portfolio health, capability building and governance.
• Manage and allocate resources to strengthen concepts and move them into New Product Development projects.
• Drive multi-region launch conversion through early feasibility, stakeholder alignment and disciplined decision making.
• Lead innovation workshops with senior stakeholders in markets to develop market innovation pipelines.

Required profile

• Minimum Master's degree in Business Administration or scientific education with business acumen.
• Minimum 10 years' experience in a similar role.
• Proven leadership and management skills.
• Strong communication skills.
• Proficiency in English and French.

Applications are made through the online apply button with a CV attached; applications are considered as they arrive and the closing date is 18 November 2026.