Job Description

We Go Places! How about you?

Immediate Superior: Lead Sensory

Location: Stellenbosch

Function: Supply Chain

Sub Function: Intrinsics

Type of Contract: Permanent

Reference Number: 149110

Closing Date: 29/12/2025



Purpose of the role


Execute sensory projects through cutting edge sensory methodologies and best practices to unlock product insight within relevant market and competitor landscape and support intrinsic product excellence for the full Heineken Beverages product portfolio.



Key responsibilities

Co-ordinate all sensory lab activities by applying world class sensory principles to achieve reliable, reproducible results for decision making.

Schedule and execute sensory projects based on the understanding and requirements of the project/brief

Consolidate sensory data obtained from sensory panel evaluations, into an optimised format for basic and advanced statistical analysis to support decision making

Manage the sensory laboratory activities optimally to support intrinsic projects

Recruit, screen and manage trained, expert sensory panels to comply to sensory standards

Ensure the house-keeping duties within the sensory laboratory is executed in line with sensory standards

Execute the sensory tests based on test designs to generate reliable and reproducible sensory data

Perform top-line sensory data analysis for early indication of impact on liquid innovation focus areas

Monitor sensory panel performance and address training needs in agreement with internal standards and sensory best practices

Manage reference standards and raw material requirements to maintain Reference Library

Build effective relationships with external and internal stakeholders

Liaise with ingredient suppliers during development of appropriate reference standards for panel training

Align with stakeholders on sensory panel test execution relevant to brief requirements and sensory research approach

Motivate and Coordinate internal Technical tasters to assist with ad hoc sensory tests when required

Continuously develop own expertise in sensory to stay relevant and up to date with best practices

Review and present new sensory research articles and relevant impact on Heineken Beverages sensory operating model

Drive own development to ensure specialist knowledge/skills remain world class

Consistently display the Heineken Beverages values and lead self effectively

Follow Heineken Beverages policies and procedures and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Apply sensory best practices and advanced methodologies to keep Heineken Beverages at the fore front of sensory science

Execution of relevant test design and panel facilitation to provide sensory support to all stakeholders (Intrinsic R&D, New Product Development, Category Leads for Operational excellence)

Develop and Maintain Reference toolkits for all relevant Heineken Beverages product categories

Provide support to Sensory Excellence Capability for new, relevant, advanced methodologies

Participate and contribute to intrinsic innovation, renovation and research initiatives when required

Job requirements: Qualification and Experience

Minimum MSc Degree, preferably PhD Degree in Food Science, Consumer Science, Wine Science or other relevant field OR

3-4 Year Degree in Food Science, Consumer Science, or equivalent technical area with minimum of 2-3 years' experience in sensory science applied in food & beverages

Minimum of 2-3 years' experience in sensory science applied to food & beverages.

Understanding of data analysis and sensory best practice principles

Proficient in MS Office and relevant sensory/statistical software packages

An analytical mind with a strategic ability and attention to detail.

Driven to deliver results.

Excellent communication and people skills


The Company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.