Intrinsic Development Specialist at Distell

• Co-develop new product brief with Brand/Business Unit/Project Owner which will be used for the development of the new products in support of the business’s innovation, growth and renovation strategies.
• Rapid prototyping and conceptualisation of intrinsic ideas to proceed to explorative/conceptual (consumer) research.
• Create and develop new intrinsic product in response to business brief by translating trends, insights (market/customer/consumer) and intelligence from competitive environment, into innovative, cost effective, regulatory compliant, consumer preferred winning solutions.
• Drive actions and collaborate cross-functionally through each stage gate of the Product Development Process.
• Application of best-in-class, leading new product development technologies and practices during the intrinsic development process supported by continuous improvement and removing non-value added activities.

• In-depth understanding and utilisation of Distell products, new and existing raw materials and ingredients (and interrelationship of ingredients and processes), chemistry and analytical testing, formulations, production processes and capabilities, regulatory framework and excise frameworks for new intrinsic solutions.
• Identify, scope, action and implement COGS improvement opportunities to support business margin improvement drive.
• Ensure all product technical and other requirements (quality, stability, product and flavour integrity, regulatory, costs, etc.) are delivered in the product development and product design process.
• Develop, manage and maintain accurate project/product details within Distell Information Management systems (formulations, specifications, ingredient lists, blending & processing methods, nutritional data, shelf life reports, etc.).
• Conduct technical risk assessment, risk mitigation and technical validations to ensure manufacturability of the new and value engineering of existing.
• Support and attend scale-up trails and first commercial production of new intrinsic product developments in line with technical success criteria.
• Support with problem solving for quality and manufacturing efficiencies.
• Development and finalisation of product related specifications for raw material, ingredients, final product and production processes to ensure manufacturability and compliance to proven product design (including quality) and regulatory requirements
• Sign-off of new intrinsic product in view of product quality and technical specifications defined.
• Provide technical support to customers/stakeholders seeking product information and advice.
• Procure, analyse and assess competitive products as benchmark and intelligence during new intrinsic product development process.
• Identify, scope, plan and implement projects and initiatives to improve quality, reduce costs and optimise compliance.
• Presentation of new product development tastings at various business platforms and forums.
• Maintain and continuously up-skill self in terms of product development and –formulation technologies, ingredients, processes competitor activity, insights, trends and external networks’ capabilities in area of expertise.
• Create and sustain effective networks and relationships with key internal & external stakeholders and suppliers to ensure flawless execution of projects in the pipeline, to be in the forefront of new innovative intrinsic developments and to ensure a competitive advantage aligned with business growth strategies
• Represent Distell on industry specific platforms where relevant.

The successful candidate must have the following Qualifications and Competencies:

• Degree in Food Science/Food Technology/Food Engineering or related field
• Minimum of 10 year’s working experience in product development in a consumer products industry (preferably alcoholic beverages)
• Excellence in sensory acuity (tasting skills)
• Knowledge and experience in introducing new products utilising a stage gate process through understanding of design- and project management principles
• Good understanding of intrinsic production processes and FMCG value chain
• Good understanding of Laboratory practices (health & safety, hygiene, 5S, etc), HACCP, Quality Systems, etc.
• Good understanding of Excise & Regulatory Framework for ingredient/raw material/product compliance
• Ability to work well individually and independently (minimal guidance and supervision) as well as in a team dynamic
• Detail orientated, strong analytical and problem solving skills
• Ability to apply previous learning and scientific principles to new situations and challenges
• Ability to coach others through skills and knowledge transfer
• Proven skills to work under pressure and deliver on multiple projects simultaneously
• Business acumen (financial, strategic, value chain, product and brand portfolio)
• Ability to influence discussions, sell new ideas, make decisions towards implementation
• Concise communication; presentation- and interpersonal skills
• Passion for creativity; high level of curiosity; seeking innovative solutions in a rapidly changing, commercially driven, customer focussed environment
• Self-starter, driven and self-motivated
• Ability to embrace change and continuous learning and up-skilling (lead self)
• Good Computer Literacy (MS Office suite, SAP, Laboratory Management Software (LIMS), Project Planner/Management tools
• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours and overtime when necessary
• Travel (national/international) as required
• Valid Code B (Code 08) Drivers Licence
• Have own reliable transport