FMCG Product Development Lead: Innovation & Scale

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Product Development Lead in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal to drive end-to-end product development from ideation to market launch. The role requires a strong FMCG background, R&D prowess, and hands-on project management to shape innovative products and meet regulatory standards.

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team, manage pilot-scale trials, and collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and Quality Assurance to ensure timely delivery and market success.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of product innovation within the FMCG space.
• Strong background in R&D and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the product development team, fostering innovation and collaboration.
• Oversee the end-to-end product development process, ensuring timely and successful delivery of new products.
• Conduct market research, consumer trend analysis, and competitor benchmarking to identify new product opportunities.
• Develop product concepts, formulations, and specifications, ensuring alignment with market needs and regulatory requirements.
• Manage pilot plant trials and scale-up processes for new product introductions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Procurement, Operations, and Quality Assurance.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with safety, quality, and sustainability standards.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Stay updated on the latest technological advancements and scientific research relevant to the FMCG industry.
• Present product development proposals and progress reports to senior management.

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Product Development Lead in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal to drive end-to-end product development from ideation to market launch. The role requires a strong FMCG background, R&D prowess, and hands-on project management to shape innovative products and meet regulatory standards.

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team, manage pilot-scale trials, and collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and Quality Assurance to ensure timely delivery and market success.