R&D Manager

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

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced R&D Manager in Pretoria, South Africa to develop innovative products in the food sector. The ideal candidate will possess a tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology and have at least five years of relevant experience. Strong communication, project management, and problem-solving skills are essential. This role includes responsibilities for product development and optimization, with a competitive salary and benefits package offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary plus benefits

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in the food industry focused on product development.
• Knowledge of enzymes and application in product research and commercialization.
• Strong financial principles for managing project budgets.

Responsibilities

• Develop new products and technologies based on scientific principles.
• Identify and optimize products to enhance performance, cost, and quality.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives for R&D processes.

Skills

Scientific product development

Statistical analysis

Project management

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Food safety knowledge

Ability to work in plant environments

Technical information communication

Education

Tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology

Job description

RPO's client is seeking a qualified R&D Manager with a tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Consumer Science, or Food Technology.

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.

Contact RPO Recruitment for your next career opportunity. Salary : negotiable.

Our client is offering a highly competitive salary for this role based on experience.

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).