Job Description

To lead and develop new products from concept to commercialisation. Work closely with cross functional teams to drive innovation, meet consumer needs and ensure the successful launch of products in the market.
Minimum RequirementsBachelors degree in Food Science / Technology, or an NQF Level 7 equivalent in a relevant field

• New Product Development Management experience in FMCG (8+ years)
• Knowledge of an integrated food processing environment (5 years)
• Ability to lead a team aligned with the Company core values, leadership behaviors (5 years)
• Ability to establish and lead a team towards implementing an NPD Strategy aligned to business goals
• Advanced Computer Proficiency 5 years experience working with MS Office (Word, Excel, PP, MS Project), advanced ERP systems knowledge

Duties and ResponsibilitiesNew Product Development:

• Design and execute the strategic vision for new product development in alignment with the overall company goals.
• Lead decision-making on innovation projects and dynamically allocate resources to ensure First Time Right and OTIF project delivery to deliver NPD growth.
• Manage a diverse portfolio of new products in various stages of development. Ensure a between incremental improvements and disruptive innovations in the pipeline
• Create and maintain a product roadmap that outlines the timelines, key milestones and resources required for product development
• Drive good customer relations and fast decision-making
• Leading and planning of trials at manufacturing plant level, including completion and ownership of relevant project documentation and troubleshooting.
• Smooth management of assigned technical and packaging related projects and project logistics of standard complexity, including management of suppliers (where applicable).
• Conduct product testing, sensory evaluations, and validation studies to ensure product safety, efficacy, and quality.
• Implement corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives to address any quality issues or deviations.
• Manages products life cycle, lead the ideation, conceptualization, and development of new products aligned with market trends, consumer preferences, and business objectives.
• Conduct market research, consumer insights analysis, and competitive analysis to identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation.
• Develop product briefs, specifications, and project timelines to guide the development process.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure seamless execution of product process.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure seamless execution of product

Product Development Oversight:

• Evaluate product concepts based on feasibility, market demand and profitability
• Oversee the prototype and testing phases to ensure that the product meets both functional requirements of the user needs
• Project Management Ensure that product development projects stay on track, on time, and within budget. Track progress and handle issues on delays
• Coordinate and communicate with cross functional teams on project timelines

Budget and Resource Management:

• Develop and Manage a product development budget ensuring resources are allocated efficiently across projects
• Ensure that Product development timelines and deliverables are met within scope and budget constraints

Compliance and Regulatory:

• Ensure that New products comply with all the relevant industry regulations, certifications and standard
• Consider all sustainability, ethical sourcing and environmental impact when developing New products ensuring that the company meets its corporate social responsibility goals
• Establish quality standards and specifications for new products, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal quality guidelines

People Management:

• Establish and support direct reports with their developmental plans
• Set the goals and strategy for NPD with input of team and inspire them into implementing the plan.
• Guide, coach and support staff through deliverables, projects and key tasks
• Provide constructive and ongoing feedback to ensure that the team achieves career and developmental goals
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the NPD team, encouraging creativity and growth

Nando's