Product Developer

picknpay; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Pick n Pay is seeking a Product Development Specialist to drive innovation in the protein category and shape new and improved offerings for our branded ranges. You will coordinate cross-functional teams, test formulations, and ensure compliance with food labeling standards.

Based in Cape Town, you will manage recipes from concept through launch while upholding cost margins. A relevant degree and 4–7 years’ experience are required to join a dynamic team driving growth across national markets.

Qualifications

• Relevant Degree/Diploma in Consumer Science/Food Science/Product Development.
• 4–7 years product development experience.
• Experience in product development in the protein category is essential.
• Valid driver’s license and own transport.
• Computer literacy – Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret sensory data and nutritional information.
• Experience with regulatory guidelines for food products and labeling.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Innovation Agenda for the product area with new offers.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams and supplier briefs.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and optimize recipes for cost efficiency.
• Document development processes and prepare reports for stakeholders.
• Develop and launch new products meeting health and regulatory standards.
• Ensure successful launches regionally and nationally within launch periods.
• Monitor packaging processes and sustainability targets.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Communication

Presentation skills

Independent work

Problem solving

Education

Degree/Diploma in Consumer/Food Science

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

To drive the development of new and innovative products for Pick n Pay branded offering as well as improve the innovation in the category that will drive the sales, increase market share thus positioning the company as the leader in the industry

Minimum Requirements

• Relevant Degree/Diploma in Consumer Science/Food Science/Product Development.
• 4 - 7 years product development experience.
• Experience in product development in the protein category is essential.
• Valid driver's license & Own Transport
• Computer literacy - Excel, word, PowerPoint.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret sensory data and nutritional information.
• Experience with regulatory guidelines for food products and labeling.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Competencies

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in creating and adapting recipes based on dietary needs and trends
• Experience in training staff on new recipes and costing strategies.
• In-depth knowledge of food costing, pricing strategies, and maintaining food margins.
• Ability to calculate and adjust recipe costs for profitability without compromising quality.
• A passion for staying updated with the latest culinary trends and techniques

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and effectively implement the Innovation Agenda for the product area by identifying suitable products for new and improved offers to ensure outstanding product deliverables
• Assist in coordinating multi-disciplinary teams including relevant internal and selected external stakeholders - pre-trial meetings and supplier briefs.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and optimize recipes for cost efficiency and scalability.
• Document development processes and findings, preparing reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop and launch new products in accordance with the company processes and development criteria. Formulate and test prototypes for texture, flavor, nutritional content and ensure they meet health and regulatory standards.
• Defined product development process is followed, including products sign offs and Commerical alignment
• Ensure the successful launch of all new products, both regionally and nationally within the stipulated launch periods.
• Enable factory trials / first packing, production at the suppliers with Food Technologists
• Keep abreast of competitor activities, topical issues, current events, food industry, trends and technology
• Ensure packaging process is followed, and awareness of sustainability targets
• Make recommendations for new attractive on shelf and improved packaging specification to ensure reduction of costs and improved functionality and customers acceptance
• Monitor the performance of new and improved products to take the appropriate action for non-performers and evaluate the contribution to improved customer satisfaction as well as the increased profitability of the range
• Monitor sales and profitability of products
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers; demonstrates confidence and expertise when interacting with suppliers
• Work with suppliers according to company values.
• Develops and implements contingency plans to close development gaps
• Analyse work errors, successes and failures in order to sets learning strategies to rectify and increase knowledge; recognise gaps in own skill set, seeks and takes advantage of learning opportunities by applying new learnt skills on the job to enhance effectiveness

Closing Date: 14 September 2026

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

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