Kempton Park: Product Development Manager posted by Chainlink Recruitment

As Product Development Manager, you will drive our tissue product portfolio, managing the entire lifecycle from ideation to commercialization. This role requires technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and strategic thinking to ensure our products excel in design, performance, quality, cost-efficiency, and market relevance. Reporting to the CEO/COO, you will lead cross-functional projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, contributing directly to business growth and competitive advantage.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• New Product Development (NPD): Lead the end-to-end NPD process, including market research, consumer trend analysis, concept generation, prototyping, sensory testing (softness, absorbency), pilot production, and commercial launch. Ensure timely delivery while integrating stakeholder feedback.
• Product Design & Optimization: Refine product attributes such as fibre composition, ply structure, embossing patterns, perforations, and packaging solutions to improve functionality, user experience, and shelf appeal. Use data-driven approaches to optimize durability, eco-friendliness, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Cost Management: Conduct cost analyses and value engineering to minimize production costs while maintaining quality. Focus on raw materials, energy efficiency, and waste reduction strategies.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Support SHEQ departments in implementing quality control protocols, including raw material inspections, in-process checks, and finished product testing. Ensure compliance with SABS, ISO 9001, FSC certification, and hygiene regulations. Perform root-cause
  analyses and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Sustainability Leadership: Promote eco-friendly innovations, such as biodegradable additives, reduced plastic packaging, and circular economy practices. Track and report environmental metrics in line with ESG goals.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with manufacturing, procurement, marketing, and external suppliers. Manage project timelines, facilitate workshops, and present updates to senior leadership.
• Market Intelligence: Monitor competitor products, emerging technologies, and consumer insights to identify gaps and opportunities for differentiation.
  Budget & Resource Management: Oversee project budgets, resource allocation, and risk assessments to ensure efficient execution and ROI.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

Education:

• Bachelors degree in engineering, Paper Science/Technology, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
• Postgraduate qualifications (e.g., MSc, MBA, or diploma in Pulp and Paper Technology) are advantageous.

Experience:

• 10-15 years in product development, R&D, or technical roles within FMCG manufacturing, preferably in tissue/paper products or hygiene goods.
  Demonstrated success leading NPD projects from concept to commercialization,

Technical Expertise:

• In-depth knowledge of tissue converting processes (creping, calendaring, winding), pulp and paper chemistry, material properties, and manufacturing equipment.
• Familiarity with quality management systems, sustainability standards, and regulatory compliance in South Africa.

Cost Accounting Integration:

• Experience in cost or management accounting is highly desirable (e.g., CIMA qualification or studying towards it, cost modelling, variance analysis, and financial impact assessment of product changes).

Skills & Competencies:

• Project management abilities: PMP, PRINCE2, or Agile certification is a plus.
• Analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and ERP systems (e.g., SAP) for cost modelling
• Excellent communication and leadership skills for cross-functional team coordination and stakeholder presentations.
• Problem-solving mindset with experience in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.
• Awareness of global trends in tissue products, such as hypoallergenic formulations or smart packaging.

Personal Attributes:

• Innovative, adaptable, committed to sustainability, and able to work under pressure in a deadline-driven environment.

Other Requirements:

• South African citizen or valid work permit holder.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the Johannesburg area.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to suppliers or production sites.