Development Technologist at Cape Herb & Spice

Purpose:
The Spice Division is looking for a dynamic Development Technologist in a junior role to support the team in leading projects & innovation for key customers across the globe to continue growth of this innovative business.
Challenges abound in this fast-paced environment that offers the opportunity to learn about international business, food and what it takes to be at the top of your industry.

Role Objectives:

• Project management
• Product development

Key Functional Duties:

• Keep abreast of, and research new concepts, trends, market activity and innovation within the herb and spice categories
• Support in developing successful, commercially viable products that are sustainable and in line with the trends and intended target market
• Project manage and assist in executing all stages of the product development process within given deadlines to ensure the product is launched on time and all details recorded is accurate and meets customer requirements.
• Ensure product conforms to country specific regulations on product and packaging.
• Support in sustainable sourcing of new raw materials and packaging from compliant suppliers
• Ensure NPD compliance is in line with company certifications, for both tea and spice and working collaboratively with Food Technologist to maintain & update accordingly.
• Creating and maintaining product specifications & in process specifications
• Review of product labels & specifications / standards for customer and legislative compliance.
• Support in liaising & thorough communication between internal operational departments on all new projects to ensure effective launches (production briefings).
• Support in effective execution of launches within internal departments.
• Technical support in problem solving within the department and to internal departments.
• Recipe tastings & testing of products to ensure that product is safe and of acceptable quality.
• Assisting in factory trials and travel tests.

Education & Required Knowledge
Below qualification or equivalent. 1 – 2 years’ work experience will be advantageous

• Food Technology
• Consumer Science 
• Bsc Food Science

Advantageous experience in:

• Project Management
• Product Development

Other skills required:

• Computer Literacy (Microsoft office)
• Excel Fluency – Intermediate level
• Excellent verbal and written communication in English

Personal Characteristics:

• Deadline driven
• Proactive and enthusiastic
• High attention to detail
• Ability to work in a high pressure and fast paced environment
• Ability to multi- task between multiple projects
• A creative thinker
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Optimistic solution finder
• Commercially minded
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• A passionate & knowledgeable foodie
• Willingness to participate & learn