Product Development Manager

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

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:

• Bachelor’s 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.