Reporting to: Head of NPD

Location: Stikland, Western Cape

About the Libstar Value-Added Meats Category

The Value-Added Meats Category forms part of the Libstar Perishables Products Category, with operations based in Cape Town and Johannesburg. We are proud to be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation committed to innovation, sustainable growth and a supportive, inclusive work culture.

As part of the broader Libstar team, our focus is on food manufacturing, with a portfolio of trusted products enjoyed by consumers across the country. Our success is built on operational excellence, innovation and a commitment to delivering quality products that meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Purpose of the Role:

An exciting opportunity exists for a Product Developer (Woolworths) to join our team, specialising in value-added meat products. The role focuses on developing, maintaining and improving new product development processes while collaborating with key customers to drive innovation and excellence.

This is a fast-paced, hands-on role that contributes across the full product development cycle, from ideation and trials through to launch, while supporting customer satisfaction, product quality and compliance.

Position Responsibilities:

Product Development and Innovation

• Develop and produce laboratory and kitchen samples for new product development.
• Lead and contribute to continuous product improvement initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to product safety requirements, customer guidelines and applicable compliance regulations.

Product Trials and Process Management

• Plan and coordinate product trials efficiently.
• Gather and analyse quality information to refine formulations and manufacturing processes.
• Maintain and update NPD documentation to support accuracy and compliance.

Customer and Cross Functional Collaboration

• Liaise with customers to develop tailored meat products that meet market needs.
• Develop, update and communicate customer specifications to relevant departments.
• Work closely with Technical, Production and Quality Assurance teams to support the smooth implementation of new products.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Grade 12 (Matric) qualification.
• A diploma or degree in Food Science or Consumer Science is preferred.
• Experience in the FMCG or food manufacturing industry will be advantageous.

Skills and Attributes:

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively across departments and with customers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organised and detail oriented, with strong planning and problem-solving abilities.
• A proactive mindset, with the ability to take initiative and drive projects forward.
• Strong time-management skills and the ability to plan daily tasks efficiently.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and Syspro.
• A valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel.
• Comfortable handling and consuming chicken, beef and pork products due to manufacturing requirements.
• No allergies to wheat or gluten due to the manufacturing environment.

Application:

Please e-mail your CV to Chandre at chandre@finlar.co.za with a motivation highlighting why you should be considered for the position. Application deadline: 6 October 2026. If you have not received a response within two weeks of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.

Note
To consider any application for employment, we will have to process your personal information. The Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013, provides that the collection, retention, dissemination and use of personal information must be undertaken lawfully and transparently.

Information regarding the processing of personal information is recorded in the HR Processing Notice, which can be accessed on the Company website at https://www.libstar.co.za/legal/