Previlage Tinashe Hombore
Senior Food Technologist | Product Development Expert
Msasa,Zimbabwe
Summary
Experienced Food Technologist with over 12 years in food processing, specializing in product development, quality enhancement, and cost optimization. Expertise in creating snack foods that drive consumer appeal and business growth. Proven ability to lead NPD projects from concept to commercialization, leveraging new technologies and ingredients. Passionate about developing innovative, high-quality products that align with food safety and allergen management standards.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
7
7
Certifications
Work History
Senior Food Technologist
Thornville Marketing (Private) Limited | WGA Liquor
Harare
05.2015 - Current
- Led multiple new product development projects, including innovative snack foods and spice mixes, resulting in 25% increase in company revenue
- Successfully scaled up recipes and led factory trials, ensuring consistency in quality and taste for commercial production
- Implemented cost-optimisation strategies by sourcing alternative ingredients, reducing raw material costs by 15% without compromising quality
- Provided expertise on technical artwork compliance and food safety regulations, ensuring adherence to allergen management standards
- Trained and mentored junior team members in NPD, fostering collaborative and innovative environment
- Worked closely with suppliers to identify and integrate new materials and technologies, leading to product innovation and expanded product range
- Led cross-functional teams in achieving project objectives, consistently meeting time and budget targets while aligning with market demands
- Implemented sensory evaluation techniques to gather consumer feedback on new products, leading to successful product launches.
Laboratory Technologist
Thornville Marketing Private Limited | WGA Liquor
Harare, Zimbabwe
03.2012 - 04.2015
- Assisted in new product development by testing formulations, ingredient compatibility, and shelf-life studies.
- Conducted chemical, microbiological, and sensory analyses to ensure raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products meet quality and safety standards.
- Responsible for calibrating, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment such as pH meters, balances, and moisture analysers to ensure reliable results.
- Managed sample collection and preservation to ensure integrity and reliability of test results.
- Supported alternative ingredient evaluations and cost optimisation projects through laboratory testing and analysis.
- Inspected laboratory equipment to maintain good working condition for optimal results.
- Maintained documentation on tests performed in lab.
Education
Master of Science - Postharvest Science and Technology
Chinhoyi University of Technology
Chinhoyi 01.2016 - 10.2018
Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Technology
Chinhoyi University of Technology
Chinhoyi 08.2007 - 10.2012
Skills
New Product Development (NPD)
Technical Expertise
Leadership
Food Safety Compliance
Problem Solving
Project Management
Quality control
Continuous improvement mindset
Packaging and labeling
Teamwork and collaboration
Certification
ISO 9001: Development and Implementation, Standards Association of Zimbabwe, 2023
Accomplishments
- Developed products that contributed to a 25% increase in company revenue and expanded the product portfolio.
- Optimised product formulations and processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in ingredient costs.
- Resolved product issue through consumer testing.
- Extensive experience with extruders for creating high-quality snack products, including corn puffs and cereals.
References
Available upon request
Timeline
Master of Science - Postharvest Science and Technology
Chinhoyi University of Technology
01.2016 - 10.2018
Senior Food Technologist
Thornville Marketing (Private) Limited | WGA Liquor
05.2015 - Current
Laboratory Technologist
Thornville Marketing Private Limited | WGA Liquor
03.2012 - 04.2015
Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Technology
Chinhoyi University of Technology
08.2007 - 10.2012