Assistant Research & Development Manager (FMCG)

Ad Talent Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading FMCG business is seeking an experienced R&D professional to support product development in Johannesburg, South Africa. The ideal candidate will have 8-10 years of experience specifically in the chocolate, biscuit, or snack manufacturing industries. Responsibilities include improving existing products, conducting trials, and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. A degree in Food Science and strong problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of R&D experience in FMCG, ideally in chocolate, biscuits, or snacks.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry and ingredient functionality.
• Experience with product formulation, trials, and commercialisation.

Responsibilities

• Support new product development and improve existing products.
• Run lab, pilot, and production trials, including formulation and scale-up.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards (GMP, HACCP, ISO).

Skills

Product innovation

Food chemistry

Project management

Problem-solving

SAP proficiency

Education

Degree in Food Science

Job description

Expat Opportunity | Zambia | FMCG (Confectionery & Baking)

Who are we

A leading FMCG business with a strong footprint across Africa, focused on producing high-quality confectionery and baking products.

Who are we looking for

An experienced R&D professional from the chocolate, biscuit, or broader snack manufacturing industry, with a passion for product innovation and quality.

What will you do

• Support new product development and improve existing confectionery and baked products
• Run lab, pilot, and production trials, including formulation and scale-up
• Conduct sensory evaluations, shelf-life testing, and product optimisation
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards (GMP, HACCP, ISO)
• Work closely with QA/QC on product quality and process improvements
• Manage packaging inputs, nutritional labelling, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate R&D documentation, reports, and specifications

What do you need

• Degree in Food Science
• 8–10 years’ R&D experience in FMCG (ideally chocolate, biscuits, or snacks)
• Strong understanding of food chemistry and ingredient functionality
• Experience with product formulation, trials, and commercialisation
• SAP proficiency
• Strong problem-solving and project management skills