Assistant Manager, Product Development

The
Assistant Manager, PDI
plays a key supporting role in driving the execution of product development, product improvement, and blending activities within the factory. Reporting directly to the Factory Manager, PDI, this role is responsible for coordinating technical documentation, supporting blend/Flavour trials and validations, and ensuring the seamless flow of product data across cross-functional teams.

Working closely with the Blending, Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, HQ NPI and HQ PDI teams, the
Assistant Manager, PDI
helps ensure that all product and blend/Flavour-related processes meet the required standards for accuracy, quality, and compliance. The role is also instrumental in maintaining robust document control systems and supporting the successful launch and maintenance of products.

This position is well-suited for a technically skilled and detail-oriented professional with a passion for continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration. The
Assistant Manager, PDI
will contribute to process optimization, product integrity, and the overall success of the factory's PDI operations.

Responsibilities:

1. Product Development & Improvement Support

• Assist in the execution of New Product Development (NPD), product reformulation, and product maintenance initiatives.
• Assist in material & product design technical readiness for new product development and material change.
• Support technical evaluations, sample submissions, product trials, and production scale-up activities.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure technical readiness for product launches and changes.

2. Blend & Flavour Management Assistance

• Support the planning and execution of blend/flavour trials, validations, and implementation of approved blend/flavour changes.
• Work with the Blending, Flavour House and Quality teams to ensure blend accuracy, consistency, and adherence to specifications.
• Monitor blend performance data and participate in investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.

3. Documentation & Data Management

• Manage and maintain accurate technical documentation, including product specifications, BOM, blend formulations, and change control records.
• Ensure compliance with document control procedures and support audits or inspections as required.
• Assist in the administration of digital systems for product and formulation data management (e.g. Navision, Sample Inventory and Power BI.)

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Liaise with HQ PDI, Global Blending, Flavour House, QA, Regulatory, and Manufacturing teams to support smooth communication and timely execution of projects.
• Participate in project meetings, prepare reports, and track status updates for PDI activities.

5. Team Leadership and Development

• Provide direct leadership and development support to the factory Blending and PDI teams.
• Build team capabilities through coaching, training, and performance management.
• Foster a culture of accountability, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.

6. Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Support compliance with internal quality standards and external regulatory requirements.
• Ensure documentation and activities are audit-ready and meet traceability and data integrity expectations.

Requirements:

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
• Relevant certifications in Quality, Project Management, or Continuous Improvement (e.g., Six Sigma, PMP) are desirable.

Experience

• 3-5 years of experience in product development, formulation, or technical operations within the tobacco and cigarette industry.
• Experience in a manufacturing or factory setting with exposure to technical documentation and process improvement.
• Familiarity with product lifecycle processes, such as product launches, technical changes, or product maintenance.

Technical Skills

• Understanding of cigarette design, blending, formulation, and specification management.
• Knowledge of documentation systems and compliance requirements (e.g., HACCP, GMP).
• Proficiency in MS Office; experience with PLM, SAP, or similar ERP systems is an advantage.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work with internal teams and external partners.
• High attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative within defined responsibilities.
• A proactive, continuous improvement mindset and willingness to grow into a leadership role.