Finwerd Launches Two-Year Beverage Traineeship to Build West Africa’s Technical Talent

Finwerd, described as West Africa’s largest flavour manufacturer, has introduced a new Beverage Application Traineeship aimed at developing young talent from across the region into beverage application technologists. The two-year programme will place selected trainees inside Finwerd’s application laboratories in Lagos, where they will train on the job alongside some of the industry’s most experienced beverage technologists.

A response to scarce training opportunities

Beverage application technologists are in high demand across Africa’s growing flavour industry, according to Finwerd. Yet opportunities to become one remain limited, held back by high entry barriers and a shortage of training programmes. The traineeship is designed to address that gap by giving young professionals from ECOWAS member states a structured route into the field.

Training in Lagos and the Netherlands

Trainees will spend the bulk of their two years working in Finwerd’s application laboratories in Lagos. Part of their training will take place at the company’s headquarters in the Netherlands. Finwerd values the training and resources invested in each trainee at more than US$150,000.

Local production for African markets

From its production facility in Lagos, Finwerd develops and produces flavour systems for the African beverage industry. Making flavours locally gives the industry shorter lead times, reduces exposure to import delays and lowers the risk associated with currency swings.

“We believe the future of Africa’s beverage industry should be developed in Africa, by people who understand its markets, consumers and opportunities,” said Mr. Steven Kabuito, Managing Director Africa at Finwerd. “We want to invest in young African talent and build the technical expertise that will shape this industry for decades to come.”

How to apply

Applications are open now through Finwerd’s LinkedIn page until the end of October.