Lead Product & Packaging Technologist

It’s fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they’re doing!

You will be responsible for the successful development of good quality, sustainable, and cost‑effective products that are informed by a clear NPD brief. You will be expected to deliver on tasks on multiple project work streams within confined timelines, taking the lead role for supplier interface within the business/category, supporting and occasionally standing in for the NPD Manager to prioritise and drive projects to completion.

• Collaborate with suppliers to develop and source novel raw and packaging materials that are specifically suited for our technology
• Play a strong role in external customer interface
• Develop packaging specifications and requirements
• Develop formulations based on product concepts provided by Category Brand teams with claims and regulatory restrictions in mind and make a prototype of the product
• Calculate NI’s and GDA’s and ensure back panel of packaging is correct
• Determine plant requirements and aid with capex (capability) requirements
• Draw up development recipes and submit to Finance for approval, after which ensure all recipe data is loaded into our R&D system
• Conduct ambient and accelerated shelf life and travel tests
• Send samples for micro testing and for independent lab testing to ensure claims can be met
• Correct and timely completion of documentation and ensure it is filed correctly (Raw Material Circulation form, Trial request, trial report etc.)
• Conduct pre‑trial meetings with the unit and thereafter conduct online trials to determine capability of the plant. Ensure that the prototype developed is able to run online
• HACCP studies – communicate any sensitive raw materials / changes to the plant or processes
• Interface strongly with Supply Chain to prioritise and execute CI and process optimisation projects
• Identify opportunities for the substitution of new raw materials and packaging in current products
• Work with outsourced manufacturers for 3rd party projects and support procurement
• Employ sustainable design techniques in the development of new products (e.g. life cycle design, design for recycling, reduced waste, etc.)

• Key attributes and competencies
• Technical Knowledge – knowledge of the science behind developing a new product. Subject matter expertise required
• Teamwork – ability to work well within your team and with other disciplines internally and externally
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills;
  Systematic problem solving and ability to summarise, share and implement learnings
• Decision Making: ability to review experimental outcomes and decide on best option forward based on information received
• Time management and organisational skills – ability to prioritise, especially when handling multiple projects
• Communication – ability to conduct presentations to external parties such as customers and suppliers

• ND, BSc, BTech in Food Science, Food Technology, Biochemistry or Chemistry and Packaging diploma
• 6–8 years’ Experience in Product development within an FMCG environment
• High Level of Computer Literacy

• Time to deliver technical project
• Successful execution of NPD Briefs
• Number of new concepts adopted
• Documentation management
• Savings from Sustainability projects
• Ability to plan and conduct competitor benchmarks

In accordance with the employment equity plan of Tiger Brands and its employment equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited, to candidates from under‑represented designated groups.