Consumer Insights & New Product Development (NPD) Manager at Afconrecruit Limited

Job Description

• We are scaling rapidly and seek a Consumer Insights & NPD Manager to strengthen our innovation and product pipeline.

Role Purpose

• The Consumer Insights & NPD Manager will lead our efforts to research consumer preferences, identify usage occasions, and test new product concepts for market acceptance.
• This role bridges consumer insights with product development, ensuring new products are technically viable, competitively priced, and aligned with market needs.
• The role will work closely with QC, GM, Finance, and Design teams to bring new products to market.

Key Responsibilities
Consumer Insights & Market Testing:

• Research usage occasions (e.g., custard, pap, bread) and gather feedback from consumers, wholesalers, and factory staff.
• Conduct product acceptance tests and validate price points with consumers to assess purchase intent.
• Meet with customers and distributors to understand preferences on product features, pricing, and packaging.

New Product Development:

• Collaborate with the QC Manager to define ingredient and quality requirements.
• Work with the General Manager to source bulk inputs and pricing.
• Partner with Finance to develop competitive pricing structures.
• Coordinate with the graphic designer on packaging concepts and branding.
• Manage NAFDAC registration and compliance for new products.
• Provide product samples to wholesalers and track performance in the market.

Pipeline Products:

• Support the development and launch of upcoming products: Peanut Powder, Kuli Kuli, Groundnut Oil, Sisi Pelebe, Spicy Peanuts, Flavoured Peanut Puffs, Cheeseballs, and Sugar-coated Peanuts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Food Science, or Consumer Psychology.
• Master’s degree (MBA, Consumer Insights, or related) is an advantage.
• 4–6 years’ experience in FMCG (food & beverages preferred).
• Proven track record in consumer research, product development, or innovation management.
• Experience with consumer testing, focus groups, and market validation.
• Familiarity with NAFDAC processes and FMCG compliance requirements (preferred).
• Strong analytical skills to translate consumer data into actionable strategies.
• Understanding of pricing strategy and financial modelling.
• Ability to collaborate across functions QC, Finance, Sales, Marketing, and Design.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Highly organized, proactive, and able to manage multiple product pipelines simultaneously.