New Product Developer Lead
Mezé Foods is seeking an innovative and commercially minded New Product Developer Lead to lead the development, optimisation and commercialisation of new and existing products across our three manufacturing divisions:
- Cheese
- Bakery
- Kitchen (Dips, Spreads, Sauces and Mediterranean Food Products)
The successful incumbent will be responsible for managing the complete product development lifecycle, from concept generation and market research through formulation, factory trials, commercial production and product launch, therefore, we are seeking a passionate food innovator with a strong technical background who enjoys creating premium food products across multiple categories. The ideal candidate is commercially minded, thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and has the ability to transform innovative ideas into successful products that align with the Mezé Foods brand and customer expectations.
The role will work closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, Sales and Marketing to ensure products are innovative, commercially viable and aligned with the Mezé Foods brand and customer expectations.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development
- Develop innovative products across the Cheese, Bakery and Kitchen product ranges.
- Drive the complete New Product Development (NPD) process from concept to commercialisation.
- Improve existing products to enhance quality, consistency, yield, shelf life and profitability.
- Conduct ingredient research and evaluate new raw materials and packaging solutions.
- Formulate recipes and manufacturing processes suitable for commercial production.
- Ensure all products meet customer specifications and market requirements.
Product Trials & Commercialisation
- Plan and coordinate laboratory and factory production trials.
- Analyse trial results and implement product improvements.
- Validate manufacturing processes prior to commercial production.
- Support production during product launches.
- Monitor first production runs to ensure consistency and quality.
Market & Consumer Innovation
- Monitor local and international food trends.
- Conduct competitor benchmarking.
- Identify opportunities for product innovation.
- Develop products aligned with current consumer preferences and retailer requirements.
Quality & Food Safety
- Ensure compliance with:
- HACCP
- FSSC 22000
- ISO 22000
- Relevant South African Food Legislation
- Work closely with the Quality Department to ensure all products meet food safety standards.
- Participate in sensory evaluations and shelf-life studies.
Documentation & Technical Administration
- Develop and maintain:
- Product specifications
- Manufacturing instructions
- Product costing information
- Technical documentation
- Product development reports
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with:
- Manufacturing
- Procurement
- Quality Assurance
- Sales
- Marketing
- Supply Chain
- Liaise with ingredient and packaging suppliers regarding new technologies and product solutions.