Job Description
Head of Product Development Beverages | Johannesburg | Permanent
Lead innovation in one of the most dynamic FMCG categories in the market. This is an opportunity to shape the future of beverage product development while driving commercial growth, quality, and operational excellence.
We are looking for an experienced product development leader to take ownership of the innovation pipeline across a fast-paced FMCG environment. You will lead a team of Product and Packaging Technologists, translating market opportunities into commercially viable products while ensuring speed to market, quality, and profitability.
This role requires a strategic thinker with strong technical capability and a deep understanding of beverage formulation, packaging development, and large-scale manufacturing. You will work closely with Marketing, Supply Chain, Quality, and cross-functional stakeholders to deliver innovative products that resonate with consumers and support business growth objectives.
Our client is a well-established FMCG business with a strong market presence and a reputation for delivering high-quality consumer products across local and international markets. Their innovation-driven culture encourages collaboration, continuous improvement, and commercial agility.
What Youll Do
Lead and develop a team of Product and Packaging Technologists
Translate marketing innovation briefs into commercially viable product specifications
Drive the development and launch of new beverage products from concept through to factory implementation
Re-engineer existing products to improve profitability, quality, and market relevance
Conduct value analysis initiatives while maintaining product integrity and customer experience
Collaborate with Category, Supply Chain, and Quality teams to support innovation delivery
Manage pilot and testing facilities where applicable
Support the sourcing and implementation of new manufacturing technologies
Drive innovation growth targets aligned to business objectives
What You Bring
BTech, BSc, or equivalent qualification in Science, Technology, Engineering, or related field
Minimum 10 years experience leading product development teams within FMCG
At least 5 years experience within the beverages category
Strong knowledge of beverage product development and packaging technologies
Proven track record of successful product launches and innovation delivery
Experience scaling products from pilot plant to factory production
Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management capability
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project delivery skills
Working knowledge of quality systems and cross-functional collaboration
What Success Looks Like
Successful launch of innovative and commercially viable beverage products
Continuous improvement in manufacturing value and product quality
Strong collaboration across technical, commercial, and operational teams
Delivery of innovation growth targets and business objectives
A high-performing, motivated, and technically capable product development team
How to Apply
Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.
About FMCG Wholesale Jobs in Gauteng
The FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) wholesale sector in Gauteng, South Africa is a dynamic industry with a growing demand for skilled professionals. Typically, job seekers in this field can expect to find opportunities in various sectors, including the retail and manufacturing industries.
Generally, salaries for FMCG wholesale positions in Gauteng tend to be within a broad range of R200 000 to R400 000 per annum, although these figures may vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. For instance, senior management roles or those in larger companies may command higher salaries, while entry-level positions or smaller organisations may offer more modest compensation packages.
Common skills for FMCG wholesale professionals typically include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent communication and negotiation skills, a good understanding of the retail and manufacturing industries, as well as experience with inventory management, logistics, and supply chain operations. Other essential skills often include technical knowledge of FMCG products, marketing and sales expertise, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
The FMCG wholesale sector is often employed by companies operating in various industry sectors, such as food processing, beverage production, personal care, and household goods manufacturing. In Gauteng specifically, these industries tend to be concentrated in the Johannesburg and Pretoria areas.
For those interested in pursuing a career in FMCG wholesale, there are several common career progression paths available. Typically, entry-level positions serve as a starting point for candidates who wish to gain experience and develop their skills before moving into more senior roles. Advancement opportunities often exist within larger companies or through the acquisition of new skills and certifications. Additionally, many organisations offer training and development programs aimed at nurturing talent from within and supporting career growth.
This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.
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