Project Manager - Product Development (Wine Industry)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based incentives

Medical aid

Provident fund

Staff discounts on wines

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 operates in Stellenbosch and seeks a Project Manager to lead new product development in the wine sector. You will coordinate cross-functional teams from winemaking to marketing to drive concept to market launches on-site at a premium winery.

The role requires a hands-on leader with strong PM skills, market research experience, and a passion for wine. Relocation to Stellenbosch or residing locally is preferred, with competitive incentives and career development opportunities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of project management experience in FMCG, food & beverage, or wine industries.
• Proven track record of managing NPD from concept to market launch.
• Strong understanding of product development lifecycle and methodologies.
• Experience with market research, consumer insights and product testing.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end NPD process within the wine sector.
• Define scope, objectives, deliverables and timelines for new products.
• Coordinate activities across viticulture, winemaking, packaging, marketing and sales.
• Develop and manage project budgets for cost-effective development and launch.
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies for new concepts.
• Oversee product formulation, testing and QA processes.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers, agencies and regulators.
• Develop and execute comprehensive launch plans with marketing and sales teams.
• Monitor progress, identify risks and implement mitigations.
• Ensure compliance with food and beverage regulations and industry standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Cross-functional coordination

Project management

Market research

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

MS Project

Trello

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious winery renowned for its innovation and quality, is seeking a dedicated Project Manager to oversee new product development initiatives. This critical role involves managing the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation and market research through to production and launch. Based in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , this is an on-site position that requires a hands-on approach and a passion for the wine industry. You will be responsible for coordinating cross-functional teams, including winemakers, marketing, sales, and operations, to bring exciting new products to market. This is an outstanding opportunity to shape the future portfolio of a leading wine producer.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end process of new product development within the wine sector.
• Define project scope, objectives, deliverables, and timelines for new product introductions.
• Coordinate activities across departments, including viticulture, winemaking, packaging, marketing, and sales.
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring cost-effective development and launch.
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies for new product concepts.
• Oversee product formulation, testing, and quality assurance processes.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers, agencies, and regulatory bodies.
• Develop and execute comprehensive launch plans, working closely with the marketing and sales teams.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure timely delivery.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food and beverage regulations and industry standards.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, preferably within the FMCG, food & beverage, or wine industry.
• Proven success in managing new product development projects from concept to market launch.
• Strong understanding of product development methodologies and lifecycle management.
• Experience with market research, consumer insights, and product testing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional team coordination skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Trello).
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Food Science, Oenology, or a related field.
• A passion for wine and a solid understanding of the wine industry are highly desirable.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Stellenbosch area.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive salary with performance-based incentives and bonus opportunities.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and generous staff discounts on our premium wines.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry events are provided.
• This role is based at our scenic estate in Stellenbosch , offering a unique and inspiring work environment.