Senior FMCG Product Developer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Career growth opportunities

Medical, dental, and retirement plans

Access to R&D facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior FMCG Product Developer to lead end-to-end product development in Sandton. You will drive ideation, formulation, testing, and launch, partnering with R&D, marketing, and supply chain while mentoring junior staff.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, market insight, and a track record of launching market-leading FMCG products in a hybrid work setting.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the ideation, conceptualization, and development of new FMCG products from concept to commercialization.
• Conduct research into market trends, consumer needs, and competitor offerings to identify new product opportunities.
• Develop product formulations, specifications, and prototypes, ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Oversee product testing, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life studies to ensure product efficacy and consumer acceptance.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure successful product launches and market integration.
• Mentor junior product development team members and provide technical guidance.

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Senior FMCG Product Developer to join their dynamic team in Sandton . This role is instrumental in driving product innovation and ensuring the development of high-quality, market-leading fast-moving consumer goods. You will lead the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and formulation to testing, scaling, and launch, working closely with R&D, marketing, and supply chain teams. This hybrid position allows for strategic planning and collaboration remotely, complemented by essential hands‑on work and team engagement in the office, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the ideation, conceptualization, and development of new FMCG products from concept to commercialization.
• Conduct research into market trends, consumer needs, and competitor offerings to identify new product opportunities.
• Develop product formulations, specifications, and prototypes, ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Oversee product testing, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life studies to ensure product efficacy and consumer acceptance.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure successful product launches and market integration.
• Mentor junior product development team members and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in product development within the FMCG industry.
• In-depth knowledge of product formulation, ingredient functionality, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products into the market.
• Excellent understanding of consumer insights and market dynamics.
• Strong project management and leadership skills, with experience in a hybrid work setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and substantial bonus potential based on product success.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance of remote and in-office work.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership in product innovation.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Access to cutting‑edge R&D facilities and collaborative project teams.