• Lead and manage end-to-end New Product Development (NPD) and product rollout projects, ensuring timely completion from concept to commercial launch.
• Own project management activities including project planning, timelines, milestones, priorities, dependencies and cross-functional coordination.
• Drive governance forums and ensure effective tracking, review and timely closure of NPD projects.
• Identify project issues and drive escalation resolution by coordinating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure projects are target-bound and completed on time as per agreed timelines.
• Manage Packaging Procurement activities, including sourcing, vendor coordination, commercial discussions and timely availability of packaging materials.
• Handle and develop packaging vendors, including vendor evaluation, negotiations, trials and execution.
• Demonstrate strong cost negotiation and cost optimization skills with vendors.
• Have a basic understanding of different types of packaging materials, formats and applications used in the food/FMCG industry.
• Work closely with R&D, Quality, Procurement, Packaging, Production, Marketing and other cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches.
• Use data analytics and project data to monitor progress, identify gaps and support business decisions.
• Ensure effective stakeholder communication and provide regular updates on project status, risks, escalations and action plans.
• Apply Six Sigma principles for process improvement and problem-solving wherever applicable.

Key Requirements

• 10-12 years of relevant experience in New Product Development, Project Management, R&D, Packaging Procurement or related roles within FMCG/Food Manufacturing.
• Educational background in Food Technology or PG in Science discipline.
• Strong and proven Project Management experience must have.
• Experience in managing new product development and commercial rollout projects.
• Experience in Packaging Procurement and handling packaging vendors.
• Strong vendor management, commercial negotiation and cost optimization skills.
• Basic knowledge of packaging materials and packaging formats.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management and escalation-handling skills.
• Good understanding of data analytics and project tracking.
• Six Sigma Green Belt preferred; Black Belt will be an added advantage.

Strong ability to manage multiple projects, priorities and stakeholders while ensuring on-time delivery.

rinkal.maggo@veeba.in

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