Technical Product Manager - Food Science OR Food Technology

LMP RECRUIT; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food industry recruitment firm in Cape Town is seeking an experienced product development professional to lead the management of innovative raw materials. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Food Science and at least 5 years of experience in product development within the food sector. This role requires strong collaboration with R&D and marketing, as well as the ability to analyze market trends and provide sales support. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in product development within the food industry.
• Experience in a product management role with exposure to sales and marketing functions is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and improvement of raw materials.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality Assurance, and Marketing.
• Analyze market trends and consumer preferences.
• Provide technical support to the sales team.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Skills

Innovative thinking and problem-solving skills

Ability to work collaboratively across departments

Customer-focused mindset

Adaptability to changing market conditions

Business acumen

Driver's license and willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science

Job description

Location : Maitland, Cape Town

Reporting to : Managing Director

Main Purpose of the Job :

To lead the development and management of innovative raw materials by combining food science expertise with commercial strategy to meet market and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.

Experience

Minimum of 5 years in product development within the food industry, preferably focusing on raw materials.

Experience in a product management role with exposure to sales and marketing functions is advantageous.

Core Competencies

• Innovative thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments
• Customer-focused mindset with a drive to meet market needs
• Adaptability to changing market conditions and business priorities
• Business acumen
• Driver's license and willingness to travel

Key Responsibilities

Product Development :

• Lead the development and improvement of raw materials, ensuring they meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality Assurance, and Marketing to bring new products from concept to market
• Conduct sensory evaluations and shelf-life studies to validate product performance

Market Analysis & Strategy :

• Analyze market trends and consumer preferences to identify opportunities for new product development
• Develop and implement product strategies aligned with company objectives and market demands

Sales Support :

• Provide technical support to the sales team, including product presentations and customer consultations
• Assist in developing sales materials and training programs to enhance product knowledge within the sales force

Regulatory Compliance :

• Ensure all products comply with local and international food safety regulations and standards
• Maintain accurate documentation for product specifications and regulatory submissions