Lead Product Developer - FMCG Innovations
Cape Town, 7561, South Africa
Listed on 2026-10-30
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Manufacturing / Production
Operations Management, Product Engineer
Our client is pioneering the future of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and is looking for a highly skilled and visionary Lead Product Developer to join their innovative, fully remote team. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the next generation of consumer products from concept to launch. Based remotely, you will lead a team of product developers, driving research, ideation, formulation, and testing processes.
Your expertise will be crucial in identifying unmet consumer needs and translating them into successful, market-leading products. We are committed to a remote-first culture, empowering our team members with the flexibility to work from anywhere while fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment. This role requires a proactive individual with a deep understanding of product development life cycles within the FMCG sector.
- Lead the entire product development lifecycle, from initial concept and ideation to market launch.
- Direct and mentor a team of product developers, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
- Conduct extensive market research and competitor analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the FMCG space.
- Oversee formulation development, ensuring products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
- Manage pilot plant trials and scale-up processes for manufacturing.
- Collaborate closely with marketing, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless product integration and commercialization.
- Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for multiple product development initiatives.
- Stay abreast of new technologies, ingredients, and manufacturing techniques relevant to the FMCG industry.
- Present product development proposals and progress reports to senior leadership.
- Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- PhD is a significant advantage.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in product development within the FMCG industry .
- Proven experience in leading product development teams and managing complex projects.
- Deep understanding of product formulation, sensory evaluation, and quality assurance.
- Experience with regulatory affairs and compliance within the FMCG sector.
- Exceptional problem-solving skills and a creative approach to innovation.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
- Proficiency in project management software and data analysis tools.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote setting.
Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes a generous remote work allowance, opportunities for professional development through online courses and conferences, and a flexible work schedule. We provide a robust health insurance plan and encourage a healthy work-life balance. You'll be part of an innovative and forward-thinking company that values creativity and autonomy.
The fully remote nature of this role offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere.
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