Our client is seeking a dynamic and innovative individual to join their team as an R&D (Snacks and Culinary) Specialist based in KwaZulu-Natal. The ideal candidate will play a key role in driving innovation and product development within the snacks and culinary category, ensuring alignment with customer needs and market trends.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage product development projects from concept to commercialization within the snacks and culinary segment.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marketing, sales, regulatory, and operations to deliver on customer briefs.

• Conduct application work and technologies to develop new snack and culinary concepts.

• Engage directly with customers to understand their needs and present innovative solutions.

• Stay abreast of market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activity to drive innovation and strategic thinking.

• Ensure compliance with internal and external regulatory and quality standards throughout the development process.

• Support technical sales with customer presentations, demos, and technical documentation.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and engage with customers.

• Creative and innovative thinking with a strong understanding of market and consumer trends.

• Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, or a related field.

• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in R&D within the food industry, preferably in snacks or culinary applications.

• Experience working with flavor systems, seasonings, and food processing technologies.

• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and food safety standards.

• Strong knowledge of food science, culinary techniques, and product development processes.

• Technical proficiency in snack and culinary product formulation and processing.

Contact information

Tamlyn Redmond