Lead Product Developer - FMCG Innovations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work allowance

Health insurance

Professional development opportunities

Flexible schedule

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Product Developer to drive end-to-end FMCG product development in a fully remote team. You will lead a skilled group of developers, guide research, formulation, and testing, and translate consumer needs into market-ready products in a remote-first culture.

The role requires a strong track record in FMCG product development, leadership, and regulatory affairs, with excellent communication and data-analysis skills for remote collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field (Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering)
• PhD is a significant advantage
• Minimum of 8 years progressive experience in product development within FMCG
• Proven experience in leading product development teams and managing complex projects
• Deep understanding of product formulation, sensory evaluation, quality assurance, and regulatory affairs
• Excellent remote collaboration and communication skills; proficient in project management software and data analysis tools

Responsibilities

• Lead the entire product development lifecycle from concept to market launch
• Direct and mentor a team of product developers
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify FMCG trends
• Oversee formulation development ensuring quality and regulatory compliance
• Manage pilot plant trials and scale-up processes
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and supply chain for commercialization
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resources
• Stay updated on new technologies and manufacturing techniques
• Present development proposals and progress to senior leadership

Skills

Team leadership

Remote collaboration

Data analysis

Project management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Food Science / Chemistry / Chemical Engineering or related field

PhD (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is pioneering the future of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and is looking for a highly skilled and visionary Lead Product Developer to join their innovative, fully remote team. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the next generation of consumer products from concept to launch. Based remotely, you will lead a team of product developers, driving research, ideation, formulation, and testing processes. Your expertise will be crucial in identifying unmet consumer needs and translating them into successful, market-leading products. We are committed to a remote-first culture, empowering our team members with the flexibility to work from anywhere while fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment. This role requires a proactive individual with a deep understanding of product development lifecycles within the FMCG sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the entire product development lifecycle, from initial concept and ideation to market launch.
• Direct and mentor a team of product developers, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Conduct extensive market research and competitor analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the FMCG space.
• Oversee formulation development, ensuring products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Manage pilot plant trials and scale-up processes for manufacturing.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless product integration and commercialization.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for multiple product development initiatives.
• Stay abreast of new technologies, ingredients, and manufacturing techniques relevant to the FMCG industry.
• Present product development proposals and progress reports to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• PhD is a significant advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in product development within the FMCG industry .
• Proven experience in leading product development teams and managing complex projects.
• Deep understanding of product formulation, sensory evaluation, and quality assurance.
• Experience with regulatory affairs and compliance within the FMCG sector.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and a creative approach to innovation.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Proficiency in project management software and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes a generous remote work allowance, opportunities for professional development through online courses and conferences, and a flexible work schedule. We provide a robust health insurance plan and encourage a healthy work-life balance. You'll be part of an innovative and forward-thinking company that values creativity and autonomy. The fully remote nature of this role offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere.