R&D Manager position at AFRIpads (Uganda)
AFRIpads
AFRIpads is the world’s leading social enterprise manufacturing reusable sanitary pads.
- We are founded on the belief that if we can overcome menstrual barriers, we are one step closer to gender equality.
- Our innovative menstrual health and hygiene solution drives life-changing impact through our reusable products, menstrual health education and an evidence-based approach.
- Our core product - AFRIpads Reusable Menstrual Kits - provide women and girls with a sustainable, quality certified menstrual product solution that offers lasting protection, comfort and dignity.
Learn more in this 3 minute video!
About the Role
Are you a passionate leader looking for your next challenge in product innovation?
AFRIpads seeks a qualified R&D Manager, with strong experience in the product development of FMCG goods, to lead all aspects of product development in the company. This role is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of social enterprise and impact, by leveraging your product development expertise to manage and develop a portfolio of life-changing products for women and girls.
The R&D Manager is responsible for the AFRIpads product portfolio and for managing all aspects of the research and development department. Key responsibilities of the R&D Manager centre around improving our existing products and developing and implementing new product designs through the complete product lifecycle, from market research to product development, consumer testing and adherence to standards and safety requirements. The product range at AFRIpads currently includes reusable sanitary pads, underwear, storage bags, washcloths and cloth backpacks. All products are manufactured in the AFRIpads factory in Masaka, Uganda and are sold both in local and export markets.
This key management role in AFRIpads reports directly to the Managing Director. The R&D Manager is responsible for two direct reports - the Consumer Researcher and the Product Developer. We are seeking a candidate with excellent leadership qualities to manage and mentor the R&D team, and with the ambition and resilience to see product development through from inception to completion. This position requires occasional travel, including to the AFRIpads factory in Masaka and fieldwork where and as necessary.
If you are seeking a position at the nexus of product development and social impact, this is your opportunity to lead and shape the AFRIpads product portfolio and to enhance the lives of millions of menstruating women and girls across Africa, and beyond!
KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Product Development management
Lead product strategy (all aspects, including strategic direction of product portfolio, product enhancements, and future products)
Assess feasibility and lead decisions on the enhancement of products and product offering (i.e. market analysis, cost price, manufacturability, user experience, etc.)
Lead R&D team in product development processes and consumer research activities
Establish and manage project goals, deadlines and priorities
Communicate and present product ideas to managing director and other stakeholders
Develop creative new packaging solutions for product
Conduct market analysis and assess viability for product developments
Lead team in the product design processes through brainstorm sessions and workshops to foster innovative design ideas
Responsible for developing the cost price of new products or product amends
Oversee product launches, collaborating closely with sales and marketing departments. Contribute to developing and document product USPs and key product information
Responsible for the handover of technical product information to the manufacturing and supply chain departments to ensure successful and smooth product launches and product enhancements
Oversee the quality, safety, compliance of raw materials and finished products
Oversee product pilots and consumer research using human centred design approaches
Manage the R&D team and budget
REQUIRED EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERTISE
Minimum 5-years experience working in Product Management, Product Development or Product Design processes
Experience working in related industries such as manufacturing, textiles, apparel, FMCG goods
2+ years management experience with direct reports. Excellent leadership and managerial competencies
Degree (preferably in Product, Manufacturing, Apparel or related field)
Outstanding written and verbal communications skills (English)
Creative and problem solving skills – able to conceptualise new products and create solutions
Strategic thinking, critical thinking and analytical mindset
Exceptional multitasking skills - superb in time management and meeting deadlines
High competency levels in Microsoft Office products and Google Suite
Solid business acumen and understanding of business and product strategy
Demonstrated experience in budget management
Desired Expertise
Entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative nature
Proactive and strong sense of self-initiative
Experience with the design of packaging
Experience with market analysis or Human Centered Design (HCD)
Experience in manufacturing and textiles
Experience with conformity to product standards (i.e UNBS, ISO)
Experience making technical packages or patterns
Mid-level skills in Adobe Illustrator, including experience using illustrator to scale technical drawings
Detail oriented
AFRIpads is offering a compensation package commensurate with experience and a 2-year employment contract with the opportunity to transition to an open employment contract.
HOW TO APPLYSuitably qualified candidates should submit their CV (max. 2-pages), cover letter (1-page), Portfolio (if applicable) to the undersigned no later than 11 March 2022.
Submit your application by email to car...@afripads.com with the subject line: R&D Manager.
Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered. Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. In case you do not hear from AFRIpads, please consider your application unsuccessful.