PRODUCT DEVELOPER: CUT FLOWERS / PLANTS

Woolworths; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food and horticulture retailer is seeking a Product Developer in Western Cape. You will focus on creating innovative product solutions that prioritize quality and sustainability, while leading cross-functional teams. Ideal candidates should have relevant qualifications and experience in horticulture or FMCG, with a passion for product development and strong communication skills. This position offers a permanent contract.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years’ experience in the Horticulture industry or relevant industry experience.
• Minimum 2-3 years experience in Product Development, Horticulture, Retail or FMCG.
• Experience of working cross-functionally or within a matrix organization.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver innovative product solutions focusing on quality and sustainability.
• Collaborate with teams and stakeholders to integrate product strategies.
• Ensure alignment with Packaging Support Specialist throughout development process.

Skills

Product Expertise in gifting

Commercial Acumen

Strong Cross-Functional collaboration

Design eye

Strong communication skills

Customer Centric

Education

Relevant Degree/Diploma in horticulture, agriculture, retail or product development

Job description

Job category: Other: FMCG, Retail, Wholesale and Supply Chain

Location: Western Cape

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: No

Introduction

A Creative with high standards of quality, and high attention to detail…does this describe you? This great opportunity could be your next…As a Product Developer in a world-class Food and Horticulture retailer, you will execute our customer‑centric product strategy. Your key focus will be to develop and deliver innovative commercially viable product solutions that are anchored in quality and sustainability; and influence the way our business flourishes with purpose. You will guide and motivate teams and key stakeholders, to collaboratively deliver a customer centric product strategy.

Integrate and implement product strategy into development plans for the relevant department(s)

• Understand the retail competitor market & customer need statesto meet and exceed expectations.
• Apply customer & trends insights into product development briefs for suppliers.
• Dissect/Apply market research and trend analysis to identify opportunities for product innovation.

Drive and maintain a world‑class sustainable product and packaging standard and framework

• Integrate with Central Quality & Suppliers to conduct and analyse comparative and directional benchmarking and translate outcomes into product plans where applicable.
• Display a clear understanding of Horticulture, Floriculture, Botany, or a related field.
• Proven experience in floral product development or a similar role in the retail or horticulture industry.

Inspire and influence the product teams and key stakeholders to deliver industry leadership positions

• Collaboratively and inclusively integrate with key stakeholders in achieving key product development milestones, ensuring a commercial and sustainability lens is considered at all times.
• Keen eye for design, and a passion for developing innovative floral products that meet customer expectations and market trends.
• Timeously achieve milestones by consistently encouraging and aligning quality outputs.

Amplify and embody an environment of creativity, growth, knowledge and empowerment

• Demonstrate a strong work ethic and commitment to quality, setting a high standard for the team to follow.
• Understand and actively share horticulture and technical product knowledge with suppliers, matrix, and PD teams.
• Familiarity with seasonal trends and consumer preferences in the floral market.

Drive, integrate, and own product development processes and supporting systems

• Ensure alignment and integration with the Packaging Support Specialist to ensure packaging is considered throughout the development process.
• Demonstrate a clear understanding of plant care, floral design, post-harvest handling and how products are developed / curated from conceptualisation to post‑launch on shelf, including production processes within our supplier base.
• Relevant Degree/Diploma/Qualification in horticulture, agriculture, retail, or product development.
• 3-5 years’ experience in the Horticulture industry or relevant industry experience.
• Minimum 2-3 years experience in Product development, Horticulture, Retail or FMCG.
• Experience of working cross‑functionally or within a matrix organization.
• Courses & experience within the field of brand management, product ranging, and development.
• Demonstrate strategic intent and holistic approach.
• Commercial Acumen, with the ability to balance Creativity & Business Objectives.
• Strong Cross‑Functional collaboration and communication skills.
• Customer Centric.
• Confident and Passionate Ambassador.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Product Expertise in gifting.
• Retail & Related Industry Knowledge.
• Willingness to travel locally and internationally.

Qualifications

• Relevant education and experience as outlined above.