Product Development Manager

Tissue Manufacturing / Paper & Pulp Industry (Essential)

A leading South African FMCG manufacturer of tissue and hygiene products is seeking a highly experienced Product Development Manager to drive innovation, product excellence, and commercial success within its growing product portfolio.

Operating across Retail and Business-to-Business markets in South Africa and neighbouring countries, the organisation produces high-quality toilet tissue, facial tissues, and paper towels trusted by households and businesses alike. The company is committed to innovation, sustainability, and product performance, continually investing in technologies and processes that improve both consumer experience and environmental impact.

This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role, ideal for a technical expert who understands the science and engineering behind tissue products, and who enjoys transforming ideas into commercially successful products.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the CEO / COO, the successful candidate will take ownership of the entire tissue product lifecycle, from concept and research through to pilot production and commercial launch.

You will work closely with manufacturing, procurement, marketing, and suppliers to create products that stand out in the market through superior softness, absorbency, design, sustainability, and cost efficiency.

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a well-established FMCG brand.

Key Responsibilities

• New Product Development
• Product Design & Optimization
• Cost Engineering & Value Optimization
• Quality Assurance & Compliance
• Sustainability Innovation
• Cross-Functional Leadership
• Market Intelligence

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in
  

  https://www.executiveplacements.com/Jobs/P/Product-Development-Manager-1271747-Job-Search-03-13-2026-11-00-14-AM.asp?sid=gumtree