Product Manager - Food Manufacturing

Job Summary:

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Product Manager to lead the development, management, and growth of chocolate, cocoa-based, and confectionery products. This role is responsible for the entire product lifecycle from ideation and R&D collaboration to market launch and performance tracking. You will work cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality, innovative, and market-relevant products.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Product Strategy & Lifecycle Management

• Define and implement product strategy aligned with market trends and company goals.
• Manage the full product lifecycle: ideation, development, launch, performance optimization, and phase-out if necessary.

2. New Product Development (NPD)

• Generate and validate product concepts based on market insights and consumer needs.
• Work closely with R&D to develop product formulations and oversee prototyping and testing processes.
• Lead packaging, positioning, and branding input during the development phase.

3. Go-to-Market Execution

• Plan and manage product launches including pricing, promotions, channel strategy, and rollout timelines.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (marketing, sales, supply chain, production) for successful execution.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as the key liaison between departments (R&D, Quality Assurance, Operations, Marketing, and Sales).
• Ensure product quality and compliance with food safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with procurement and production for cost efficiency and scalability.

5. Market & Consumer Insights

• Analyze market trends, customer behavior, and competitor activity to identify opportunities.
• Translate insights into actionable product innovations or improvements.
• Gather and integrate customer feedback from B2B clients and end consumers.

6. Product Performance Monitoring

• Define KPIs and track product performance (e.g., sales, margin, volume, market share).
• Prepare regular reports and presentations for internal stakeholders.
• Identify areas for improvement or enhancement based on performance metrics.

7. Cost & Profitability Management

• Work with finance and supply chain to determine product costing and profitability.
• Monitor cost fluctuations and propose strategies for cost reduction without compromising quality.

8. Regulatory & Quality Compliance

• Ensure all products comply with relevant food safety regulations and certifications (e.g. BPOM, Halal, ISO, HACCP).
• Oversee proper documentation, labeling, and product registration where necessary.

9. Continuous Improvement

• Lead initiatives to reformulate, rebrand, or optimize existing products.
• Address product complaints, quality issues, and improvement opportunities with relevant teams.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Management, Business, or a related field.
• Experience in product management or development within the food, chocolate, or FMCG industry.
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Solid understanding of food production, costing, and quality systems
• Familiarity with food safety standards and regulations
• Creative and consumer-focused mindset