Senior Project Manager - Product Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive package

Health insurance

Leadership training

Profit sharing

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to drive end-to-end product development for consumer goods in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead cross-functional teams from concept through launch, align initiatives with strategic goals, and ensure high quality, timely delivery in a dynamic market.

The role requires seven years of PM experience, a relevant degree, and a proven ability to manage scope, risk, and budget while collaborating with R&D, marketing, manufacturing,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Product Design, Business Administration, Marketing, or related field.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 7 years in project management with a focus on product development in consumer goods.
• Proven track record launching products from concept to market.
• Knowledge of stage-gate processes and agile principles.
• Strong leadership and communication; able to manage diverse teams.
• Experience with manufacturing and supply chain partners; stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end product development lifecycle for new consumer goods.
• Develop comprehensive project plans with scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resources.
• Coordinate cross-functional meetings across R&D, marketing, operations, and QA.
• Manage project risks and issues; implement timely solutions.
• Oversee design, prototyping, testing, and validation phases.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers, manufacturers, and agencies.
• Track progress against milestones; monitor budgets; ensure on-time delivery.
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies to inform strategy.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and quality standards.
• Prepare and present updates to senior leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Agile methodologies

Project management

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree (Engineering/Design/Business/Marketing)

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned innovator in the consumer goods sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead their product development initiatives in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This pivotal role involves overseeing the entire lifecycle of new product introductions, from concept generation and market research to design, development, testing, and launch. You will be responsible for managing cross-functional teams, including R&D, marketing, manufacturing, and sales, ensuring seamless execution and alignment with strategic business goals. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of product development methodologies, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for bringing innovative products to market. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact within a creative and dynamic environment in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end product development lifecycle for new consumer goods.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including defining scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional team meetings, ensuring effective collaboration and communication among R&D, marketing, operations, and quality assurance.
• Manage project risks and issues, proactively identifying potential challenges and implementing timely solutions.
• Oversee product design, prototyping, testing, and validation phases to ensure product quality and performance.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers, manufacturers, and agencies involved in product development.
• Track project progress against milestones, monitor budgets, and ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope.
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies to inform product strategy and development.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with relevant industry regulations and quality standards in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .
• Prepare and present project updates, reports, and recommendations to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Product Design, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in project management, with a strong emphasis on product development within the consumer goods or related industry.
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products from concept to market.
• In-depth knowledge of product development processes, stage-gate methodologies, and agile principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Jira).
• Experience working with manufacturing and supply chain partners is crucial.
• Familiarity with the business landscape in the Western Cape region is beneficial.
• Strong understanding of market analysis and consumer insights.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including performance incentives and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive health insurance, covering medical and dental, is provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including leadership training and attendance at industry forums, are actively encouraged.
• This role offers the chance to work on innovative products in a vibrant setting in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Our client fosters a creative and collaborative work culture, promoting work-life balance and employee well-being.