Senior FMCG Product Innovator & Development Lead

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Performance-based bonus structure

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan and life保险

Leadership development & professional

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Product Development Manager for a prestigious FMCG company in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead new product initiatives and manage the full development lifecycle from ideation to commercialization.

You will collaborate with R&D, marketing and operations to identify market opportunities, develop prototypes, and drive successful product launches that meet consumer needs and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field is required or equivalent.
• PhD is advantageous for advanced research roles.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive product development experience in FMCG.
• Proven track record of launching successful products.
• Strong understanding of food science, formulation, manufacturing, and regulation.
• Excellent project management and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Deep insight into consumer behaviour and market trends in FMCG.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with stage-gate processes and stage-gate management.
• Passion for innovation and a creative approach to problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead ideation, concept development, and strategic planning for new FMCG launches.
• Conduct market research, consumer trend analysis, and competitive assessments.
• Oversee product development from concept to pilot, regulatory checks, and production.
• Collaborate with R&D to develop prototypes meeting quality and safety standards.
• Work with marketing to create compelling product positioning and go-to-market plans.
• Manage project timelines, budgets and resources for timely launches.
• Coordinate with manufacturing and supply chain for scale-up and readiness.
• Analyze post-launch performance and recommend improvements or extensions.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, ingredients, and consumer preferences.
• Present proposals and progress reports to senior management.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Business Administration, Marketing, or related field

PhD an advantage

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Product Development Manager for a prestigious FMCG company in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead new product initiatives and manage the full development lifecycle from ideation to commercialization.

You will collaborate with R&D, marketing and operations to identify market opportunities, develop prototypes, and drive successful product launches that meet consumer needs and regulatory standards.