About the Role

Lead and manage the product development team, overseeing the entire Product Life Cycle (PLC) and ensuring new products are launched on schedule and in compliance with business requirements.

Responsibilities

Develop products that meet defined cost, quality, and profitability targets, including sourcing and managing OEM manufacturers and suppliers.
Collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, packaging designers, R&D teams, OEM partners, marketing teams, and sales teams.
Work with the Marketing team and related departments to identify opportunities and define strategies for new product development.
Research, source, and coordinate with relevant parties to identify new ingredients, technologies, and innovations that support the development of new products and the improvement of existing products.
Conduct market research and analyze consumer feedback, focus group results, and internal/external data to support product development and manufacturing decisions.
Coordinate with OEM partners and outsourced manufacturers to ensure product development projects achieve targeted objectives and business goals.
Build and maintain strategic relationships with key OEM manufacturers, suppliers, and business partners.
Coordinate with production teams to conduct pilot trials and commercial-scale production runs, including reviewing, validating, and approving final production formulations.
Establish company-wide product development standards, processes, and performance tracking systems to ensure effective project execution and continuous improvement.
Present product development plans, project progress, and performance results to senior management, while providing expert guidance and recommendations on product innovation and development strategies.
Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in food science, Food Technology, or a related field.
Minimum 6 years of experience in Product Development, Research & Development (R&D), Product Management, or related functions within the food and beverage industry.

Required Skills

Proven experience in leading product development teams and driving innovation from concept to commercialization.
Strong knowledge of food science, product development processes, product costing, and margin management.
Experience managing OEM manufacturers, suppliers, and cross-functional projects.
Strong strategic thinking with the ability to align product innovation with business growth objectives.
Experience in dessert, bakeries, beverage, tea, coffee, or café businesses will be an advantage.
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and team leadership skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
Strong command of English, both written and spoken.

Director of Product Development