Product Development Assistant at SMD Technologies

Job Purpose

• We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Product Development Assistant to support the Product Development team throughout the product development lifecycle.
• The successful candidate will assist with research, product sourcing, product testing, documentation, project coordination and product administration.
• This role is ideal for someone with a strong interest in consumer products, trends and product development who enjoys working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Development Support: Assist with the development and enhancement of new and existing products, from initial concepts through to final product.
• Market Research: Conduct research on market trends, competitors, customer needs and new product opportunities.
• Product Sourcing: Assist with sourcing products, suppliers, samples and product information in line with business requirements.
• Product Testing: Coordinate and assist with product testing, samples and quality checks to ensure products meet required standards.
• Product Documentation: Maintain accurate product specifications, product information, user manuals, packaging information and other relevant documentation.
• Project Coordination: Assist with tracking product development timelines, milestones, samples and approvals to ensure projects remain on schedule.
• Category Support: Assist with the day-to-day management and administration of product categories, including monitoring product availability, launches and product performance.
• Sales & Data Analysis: Assist with analysing sales data and preparing reports using tools such as Power BI to identify trends and opportunities.
• Customer & Market Feedback: Gather and consolidate customer, sales and market feedback to support product improvements.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Compliance, Operations, Procurement and other relevant departments to ensure successful product launches and execution.
• Product Information: Ensure product information is accurate, up to date and communicated to the relevant departments.
• Reporting: Assist in preparing regular product and sales reports and presentations for management.
• General Administration: Provide administrative and coordination support to the Product Development team as required.

Requirements:

• Relevant qualification in Product Development, Business, Marketing, Consumer Science, Design, or a related field.
• 1–3 years' experience in product development, product coordination, category administration, buying, sourcing or a related role would be advantageous.
• Experience within the consumer electronics, FMCG, retail or wholesale environment would be advantageous.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Exposure to Power BI or other data analysis tools would be advantageous.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills.
• Good attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with multiple departments and stakeholders.
• A strong interest in consumer products, market trends and innovation.
• Ability to travel when required.