Liquid Commercialisation Specialist at Diageo

Purpose of the Role

• The role is responsible for Supply Chain Liquid development (innovation and renovation) within the Supply Chain/Production function in Diageo and to deliver liquid development projects ( within costs, quality and time parameters).
• This role is the link between marketing Innovation and Supply/Production functions and would lead in the piloting of new products in this regard.

Leadership and Functional

• Demonstrates exemplary stakeholder engagement capability
• Constantly promotes and builds upon the expertise and professionalism
• Engages others in new projects and initiatives
• Uses sound interpersonal skills to build credible relationships

Role Responsibilities

• Management of a portfolio of complex technical (liquid and packaging) projects in their entirety, demonstrating the required rigour of Project Management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships and networks internally and across suppliers and third-party service providers
• Translate concept liquids into a fully commercialised product through developing product handling processes and managing technical trials at pilot and production scale, working closely with other teams involved in these trials
• The role is also responsible for Supply Chain packaging development (innovation and renovation) within Supply Chain/Production function in Diageo South Africa
• Ensure new products comply with the requirements of the Liquor Products Act and other legislative and internal regulations and standards
• Develop packaging for innovation and brand change and translate a prototype concept into a fully commercialised package, working closely with suppliers to agreed cost, quality and time commitments.
• Keep up to date with new innovations and technology and be proactive in bringing potential opportunities to the attention of the business.
• Deliver all work to agree standard on time and within budget while at all times complying with Health and Safety requirements and Good Manufacturing Practice.
• Application of required project planning, budgeting, tracking, reporting and stakeholder communications processes to demonstrate required rigor of project management.

Qualifications and Experience Required

• Relevant Degree or Qualification.
• Product, concept and process development is essential
• Sound people co-ordination and management ability.
• Minimum of 6 years practical experience in a relevant Technical role. 
• Practical beverage production/quality experience is a requirement. 
• Commercial awareness and financially literate.
• Strong project management skills with sound knowledge of a wide range of packaging materials and processes including:
• Liquid development and commercialization
• Risk Management practices and techniques
• Ability to develop sound understanding of GBTC and Brand Change processes and Ways of Working.
• Ability to develop sound understanding of Navigate process.
• Commercial awareness and financially literate.
• Excellent organization, report preparation, and presentation skills.