FMCG Product Development Lead

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth & international培训

Generous leave and PTO

Hybrid work arrangement

State-of-the-art R&D facilities

Employee product discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Product Development Lead for Centurion, Gauteng, to drive ideation, development, and launch of new FMCG products. You will lead a team, collaborate with marketing, sales, and operations, and ensure regulatory compliance throughout the lifecycle.

The ideal candidate has a strong technical background, 8+ years in FMCG development, and proven launch success. Relocation to Centurion may be required. Hybrid work arrangements are available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in product development, specifically within FMCG.
• Proven track record of successfully launching innovative FMCG products.
• Strong understanding of formulation, sensory evaluation, and product testing methodologies.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to analyze complex data and translate insights into actionable product strategies.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end product development process from concept generation to market launch.
• Conduct thorough market analysis and consumer research to identify new product opportunities.
• Develop product concepts, specifications, and prototypes, ensuring alignment with brand strategy.
• Oversee formulation, testing, and quality assurance of new products.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to ensure feasibility and scalability.
• Manage product development budgets and timelines effectively.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with regulatory standards and quality guidelines.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to the product development team.
• Support marketing and sales teams with product information and launch plans.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and competitor activities.

Skills

Product development

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Market research

Regulatory compliance

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Food Science/Engineering/Cood Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Product Development Lead to join their dynamic team in Centurion, Gauteng. This critical role focuses on driving the ideation, development, and successful launch of new FMCG products that meet evolving consumer needs and market demands. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific or technical background, coupled with a deep understanding of product lifecycle management, market research, and consumer trends. You will lead a team of talented developers and work collaboratively with cross-functional departments, including marketing, sales, and operations, to bring innovative solutions to market. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our client's product portfolio and contribute to their sustained growth in the competitive Gauteng market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end product development process from concept generation to market launch.
• Conduct thorough market analysis and consumer research to identify new product opportunities.
• Develop product concepts, specifications, and prototypes, ensuring alignment with brand strategy.
• Oversee formulation, testing, and quality assurance of new products.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to ensure feasibility and scalability.
• Manage product development budgets and timelines effectively.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with regulatory standards and quality guidelines.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to the product development team.
• Support marketing and sales teams with product information and launch plans.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and competitor activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in product development, specifically within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of successfully launching innovative FMCG products.
• Strong understanding of formulation, sensory evaluation, and product testing methodologies.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to analyze complex data and translate insights into actionable product strategies.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency in relevant software and laboratory equipment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Centurion, Gauteng area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional growth and international training.
• Generous leave policy and paid time off.
• A stimulating and innovative work environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art research and development facilities.
• Support for work-life balance through hybrid working arrangements.
• Employee discounts on company products.