Regulatory Affairs Specialist - South Africa at Mars

• As a Regulatory Affairs Specialist at Royal Canin, you will play a pivotal role in maximizing opportunities and minimizing risks by guiding business decisions through best-in-class regulatory compliance and innovation deployment. You will ensure market access continuity by advocating for science-based regulations and protecting the reputation of Royal Canin and its customers across Africa.
• You will be accountable, alongside the Regulatory Affairs Team Lead, for regulatory support focused on license importation, re-exportation, and compliance. This role requires close collaboration with importers, trade associations, local authorities, and public bodies to ensure regulatory and trade compliance of ingredients, products, processes, and packaging.

What are we looking for?

• A Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science or Veterinary Medicine is required, with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in Regulatory Affairs, public policy, or trade association-related roles.
• You’ll bring solid knowledge of the small animal health industry and a strong understanding of nutrition, pet food law, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken English, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are essential.
• You are a trusted partner who can influence and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

What would be your key responsibilities?

• Drive the regulatory strategy across Africa by ensuring product compliance and providing regulatory expertise for ingredients, labeling, packaging, and import permits.
• Manage regulatory risks and opportunities by engaging with trade associations, local authorities, and regulatory bodies.
• Support market registration, dossier preparation, and regulatory pre-assessments for new product launches and route openings.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams including Legal, Demand, and Value Chain Operations to unlock innovation and ensure compliant product deployment.
• Maintain up-to-date licenses and permits, manage re-exportation processes, and monitor sanitary regulations to safeguard pet health and safety.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.