A leading FMCG and Beverage Innovation company is looking for an experienced Food Technologist with strong expertise in flavour science and commercial R&D to join their team in Johannesburg. This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially astute professional to lead the full product development lifecycle — from global trend intelligence to commercial scale-up for some of the world’s most iconic foodservice brands. If you have a designer’s eye for sensory experience and a track record of independently leading products to market, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:

• Own the end-to-end development of new syrups, sauces, powders, and fruit concentrates from concept to commercial launch.
• Translate client briefs and global trend insights into market-ready product formulations.
• Lead sensory evaluation programs and shelf-life studies to ensure high quality and analytical rigor.
• Manage Bills of Materials (BOMs), technical data sheets, and product costings to meet margin targets.
• Ensure 100% compliance with local and international food-labelling regulations and certifications like FSSC 22000, Halal, and Kosher.
• Oversee supplier vetting, raw material evaluations, and audits to maintain quality standards.
• Manage pilot plant trials and lead the transition from bench-scale innovation to full factory production.
• Mentor junior food technologists to enhance technical capability and professional ownership within the R&D team.

Requirements:

• BSc in Food Science, Food Technology, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in R&D or food technology.
• Proven track record of independently leading products from concept to commercial launch.
• Expertise in ingredient functionality, including sweeteners, stabilisers, and flavour systems.
• Advanced command of sensory evaluation methodologies and shelf-life testing protocols.
• Proficiency in nutritional calculations, regulatory labelling, and technical documentation like BOMs and spec sheets.
• Comprehensive knowledge of food safety management systems such as FSSC 22000 and HACCP.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and conducting raw material audits.
• Ability to mentor junior staff and lift technical capability across the R&D function.

Contact Hire Resolve for your next career-changing move.

• Our client is offering a highly competitive salary for this role based on experience.
• Apply for this role today, contact Adrienne Steyn at Hire Resolve on [email protected] or on LinkedIn
• You can also visit the Hire Resolve website: hireresolve.us or email us your CV: [email protected]

We will contact you telephonically in 3 days should you be suitable for this vacancy. If you are not suitable, we will put your CV on file and contact you regarding any future vacancies that arise.