Global Product Development Lead Africa Markets

Pedros; Durban; On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,150,000; Full time

Job summary

Pedros in Durban seeks a Senior Product Development Specialist to lead cross‑regional product initiatives across Africa. You will adapt existing products and create new offerings for various African markets while maintaining Pedros brand consistency. Regular travel to markets on the continent is required.

The role emphasizes hands‑on product development, regulatory compliance and collaboration with franchise partners and in‑market teams to ensure successful launches.

Qualifications

• Several years of experience in product development in food, FMCG, retail or QSR environments.
• Experience developing or adapting products for international or multi-country markets, ideally Africa.
• Strong recipe development and food science fundamentals, with cost/margin awareness across markets.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly across African markets.

Responsibilities

• Lead localisation and adaptation of Pedros' core menu for African markets.
• Develop new products and limited-time offers for regional markets.
• Conduct in-market research including taste tests and consumer feedback.
• Assess local ingredient availability and identify substitutes without compromising quality.
• Prepare product costings and margin analyses for each market.
• Ensure products meet local food safety, labeling and regulatory requirements with legal/compliance.
• Support market entry by developing launch menus and rollout plans with franchise partners.
• Act as the Product Development liaison for international franchise partners and in-market teams.
• Track international projects, timelines, costs and post-launch performance.

Job description

Pedros in Durban seeks a Senior Product Development Specialist to lead cross‑regional product initiatives across Africa. You will adapt existing products and create new offerings for various African markets while maintaining Pedros brand consistency. Regular travel to markets on the continent is required.

The role emphasizes hands‑on product development, regulatory compliance and collaboration with franchise partners and in‑market teams to ensure successful launches.