Product Developer at Cape Herb & Spice

Purpose:

A dynamic and vital role where commercial flair and project management meet passionate foodie with equal importance.

An opportunity to lead tea, and herb & spice projects for a key local customer as well as help grow the tea business internationally by working closely with customers across the globe, with a common goal to deliver innovative tea, and herb & spice products which South Africa has to offer. 

Challenges abound in this fast-paced role that offers the opportunity to learn about international business, food and what it takes to be at the top of your industry.

Job Objectives:

• Project Management and Product Development

 Key Functional Areas:

• Keep abreast of, and research new concepts, trends, market activity and innovation within the tea and herb and spice categories
• Develop successful, commercially viable products that are sustainable and in line with the trends and intended target market
• Project manage and execute all stages of the product development process within given deadlines
• Ensure product conforms to country specific regulations on product and packaging
• Manage 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
• Liaison between customer and internal operational departments on all new projects to ensure effective launches
• Schedule, lead and monitor customer weekly meetings and minutes
• On-time product launches
• Effective execution of launches within internal departments

Education and Required Knowledge:

• Either an equivalent of the below degree and 3-5 years’ experience or simply 5-10 years’ experience in the industry will be recognized:
• Food Technology
• BSc Food Science
• Computer Literacy (Microsoft office)
• Excel Fluency – Intermediate level
• Excellent verbal and written communication in English
• Driver’s license essential

Advantageous experience in:

• Project Management
• Product Development
• Commercial exposure

Personal Characteristics:

• Deadline driven
• Proactive and enthusiastic 
• Commercially minded
• High attention to detail
• A passionate and knowledgeable foodie
• Strong interpersonal skills
• A Creative thinker
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Positive Mindset
• Solution-orientated