Product Developer

Pick n Pay Retailers; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Pick n Pay is seeking an experienced Product Developer to lead the innovation agenda for protein products across regional and national launches. You will collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to create compelling offerings, adjust recipes for cost efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance and nutritional integrity.

The role requires 4–7 years in product development, strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and a proactive ability to manage multiple projects in a

Qualifications

• 4–7 years product development experience
• Experience in protein product development is essential
• Valid driver’s license and own transport
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret sensory data and nutritional information
• Experience with regulatory guidelines for food products and labeling
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in recipe costing and profitability analysis
• Staying updated with culinary trends and techniques

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Innovation Agenda for the product area
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams and supplier briefs
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and optimize recipes for cost efficiency
• Document development processes and prepare reports
• Develop and launch new products regionally and nationally
• Test prototypes for texture, flavor, and nutrition while meeting health standards
• Ensure packaging follows specifications and sustainability targets
• Monitor performance and profitability of new products
• Maintain relationships with suppliers and manage contingency plans

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent worker

Regulatory knowledge

Problem solving

Education

Degree/Diploma in Consumer Science/Food Science/Product Development

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

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
• 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 sustainable 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!

Discover who we are

At Pick n Pay, we are more than just a retailer; we are an organisation of dedicated people committed to creating an exceptional shopping experience for our customers and an enriching, vibrant work environment for our employees.

Founded in 1967, Pick n Pay is one of the largest retail chains in South Africa, serving millions of customers across the African continent.

Our reputation is built upon our commitment to offering customers the best in quality, and value.

Our Mission

We serve with our hearts, we create a great place to be and With our minds, we create an excellent place to shop

Our values

• Passion for our Customers: We are passionate about our customers and will fight for their rights. Our customers are our priority, and their satisfaction is our success.
• Respect and Care: We care for and respect each other. We value our team's diversity and treat each other with kindness and understanding.
• Personal Growth and Opportunity: We foster personal growth and opportunities. We believe in empowering our employees, providing opportunities for learning and advancement.
• Leadership and Innovation: We nurture leadership and vision, and reward innovation. We encourage our employees to be leaders in their roles and think outside the box.
• Honesty and Integrity: We live by honesty and integrity. We operate with transparency and trustworthiness in all our interactions.
• Community Support: We support and participate in our communities. We believe in making a positive impact and giving back to our communities.
• Individual Responsibility: We take individual responsibility. We are responsible for our actions and decisions.
• Accountability: We are all accountable. We hold ourselves responsible for delivering on our commitments to our customers, each other, and our business.

Why Pick n Pay?

At Pick n Pay, our strength lies in our people. We strive to be the employer of choice, attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry. We create a work environment that fosters growth, celebrates achievements, and values individual contributions. Here, your work will be meaningful, recognized, and rewarded. Experience the joy of being part of Pick n Pay.

Let's shape the future of retail in Africa together.