R&D Manager

Rpo Recruitment; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an R&D Manager based in Pretoria. The candidate must have a tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology and at least 5 years of experience in scientific product development. The role involves leading innovation and optimization in product development within the food industry. Competitive salary plus benefits offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the food industry.
• Knowledge of enzymes and product research.
• Expertise in food safety and HACCP.

Responsibilities

• Develop new products based on scientific principles.
• Manage R&D consultants and relationships.
• Conduct process trials and improve production yields.

Skills

Scientific product development

Project management

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Statistical analysis

Education

Tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology

Job description

Responsibilities

• Develop new products and technologies based on scientific principles.
• Identify and optimise current products to enhance performance, cost, and quality.
• Differentiate products from competitors and drive company growth through innovation and cost reduction.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives for R&D processes and facilities.
• Provide technical leadership from project inception through commercialization.
• Manage R&D consultants and build relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Translate product specifications into effective, manufacturable products that meet cost targets.
• Conduct and oversee process trials in the R&D lab, pilot plant, and bakeries.
• Improve production yields and advise on equipment modifications for new product development.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitive strategies, and new technologies to guide innovation efforts.

Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the food industry, with a focus on scientific product development and launch.
• Knowledge of enzymes and experience in applying scientific, engineering, and consumer insights in product research, formulation, processing, and commercialization.
• Proven ability to incorporate statistical analysis and Design of Experiments (DOE) into project work.
• Strong knowledge of financial principles for managing project budgets.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences.
• Expertise in food safety, HACCP, and the integration of product, process, and packaging to ensure product quality.
• Excellent project management, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with cross‑functional teams and external stakeholders.
• Personal accountability, initiative, and creativity in driving continuous improvement and resolving issues.
• Ability to work in a plant environment for extended periods, including elevated temperatures, high humidity, and high flour dust conditions.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Willingness to travel regionally up to 20%.

Direct Reports

Junior Food Technologist

Benefits

Competitive salary plus benefits.

Salary negotiable.

RPO's client is seeking a qualified R&D Manager with a tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology. This role, based in Pretoria, requires a driven professional to lead product innovation and optimisation efforts, ensuring the company remains competitive in the food industry.

Apply for this role today, contact Llizelle Jansen at RPO Recruitment or on LinkedIn. You can also visit the RPO Recruitment website or email us your CV: (email protected).