Product Development Manager - FMCG

Placements24; Polokwane; Híbrido; ZAR 900.000 - 1.200.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary & bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Career growth opportunities

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Product Development Manager in Polokwane, Limpopo to lead the full product lifecycle from ideation to commercialization. The role emphasizes market-driven innovation, cross-functional collaboration with R&D, Marketing, Sales and Manufacturing, and strong project management.

A hybrid work setup is offered to balance on-site product work with flexible arrangements. The ideal candidate has 5–7 years in FMCG product development or R&D, with a solid track record of bringing

Formación

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 5–7 years of progressive product development/R&D experience in FMCG.
• Proven track record of launching FMCG products.
• Knowledge of formulation science and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in Polokwane, Limpopo.

Responsabilidades

• Lead ideation, concept development and formulation of new FMCG products.
• Manage end-to-end product development: feasibility, prototyping, sensory eval, shelf-life testing.
• Collaborate with R&D, Marketing, Sales and Manufacturing for launches.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis for opportunities.
• Develop and manage timelines, budgets and resources.
• Oversee product quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare specifications, technical docs and marketing materials.
• Present concepts and launch plans to senior management.
• Stay updated on new technologies and ingredients in FMCG.
• Foster innovation and continuous improvement within the team.

Conocimientos

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Market research

Communication

Educación

Bachelors in Food Science

Masters preferred

Descripción del empleo

About the Role Our client, a dynamic and innovative player in the FMCG market, is seeking a creative and experienced Product Development Manager to join their team in Polokwane, Limpopo . This crucial role will lead the entire product lifecycle, from ideation and concept development through to formulation, testing, and commercialization. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of consumer trends, market needs, and product innovation within the FMCG sector, coupled with excellent project management and cross-functional collaboration skills. Join our client to drive the development of exciting new products that delight consumers and expand market share.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the ideation, concept development, and formulation of new FMCG products, aligning with market trends and consumer insights.
• Manage the end-to-end product development process, including feasibility studies, prototyping, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life testing.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, Marketing, Sales, and Manufacturing teams to ensure successful product launches and commercialization.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify new product opportunities and gaps in the market.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope.
• Oversee product quality assurance and regulatory compliance throughout the development process.
• Prepare product specifications, technical documentation, and marketing support materials.
• Present product concepts, development progress, and launch plans to senior management and stakeholders.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies, ingredients, and manufacturing processes relevant to FMCG product development.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the product development team.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in product development, R&D, or a similar role within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of successfully bringing new FMCG products to market.
• Strong understanding of formulation science, manufacturing processes, and quality control in the food or consumer goods sector.
• Excellent project management skills, with experience in managing complex projects from concept to launch.
• Proficiency in market research, consumer insights analysis, and competitive intelligence.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment in Polokwane, Limpopo .
• Knowledge of relevant food safety regulations and industry standards.
• Creativity and a passion for developing innovative consumer products.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development within a leading FMCG company.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Engaging and collaborative work environment in Polokwane .