Head of Product Development & Innovation
FMCG / Food & Bev /Agri ~ Chem/Petro/Oil & Gas
Cape Town – Western Cape – South Africa
An established South African manufacturing and consumer products business is appointing a Head of Product Development & Innovation to lead its innovation strategy and scientific direction at executive level.
This EXCO appointment carries accountability for the innovation pipeline, regulatory integrity and the commercial success of new product development. The position is open to candidates from personal care, chemicals, petro and fast-moving consumer goods backgrounds.
You will bring a strong scientific foundation and a track record of translating research into market-ready products at scale, together with the commercial acumen to align innovation with business strategy.
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
- MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related scientific discipline
- 10+ years of progressive product development or R&D leadership within manufacturing, chemicals, petro, FMCG or consumer formulations
- Expertise in product formulation, technical or clinical validation, and regulatory compliance within the relevant industry
- Proven leadership of multidisciplinary scientific and technical teams
- Strong commercial, project management and strategic capability
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Define and execute the product development and innovation roadmap
- Ensure scientific and technical substantiation of product claims
- Oversee regulatory compliance across relevant markets
- Lead product development from concept through to commercialisation
- Build and mentor a high-performing product development function
Manage departmental budgets and innovation investment