ALL JOBS FROM AROUND THE PACIFIC

CJ Patel Group is a diverse group of companies operating with over 90 years of history across a variety of industries all with the common goal of delivering world-class products and services. The CJP Group controls operations of over 13 different companies using a variety of ownership model from joint ventures to wholly owned subsidiaries. With the head office in Suva, CJ Patel Group has extended manufacturing, sales, distribution, and service businesses in Fiji with renowned brands and products and significant exports to several countries and other regional markets such as New Zealand, East Timor, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Tonga, Samoa and Papua New Guinea.

HEAD OF INNOVATION AND NPD

Role Description:
CJ Patel Group is seeking to recruit a visionary and forward-thinking leader with a passion for innovation and turning ideas into impactful, market-ready solutions. As the Head of Innovation and New Product Development (NPD), you will be based at our Head Office in Wailekutu, Lami, working collaboratively across all business units and functions to drive strategic innovation and product development initiatives.

• Lead Group’s end-to-end innovation  and NPD process—from idea generation to commercialization.
• Drive R&D initiatives and a culture of innovation aligned across all levels of the organization and business units.
• Identify new product opportunities based on consumer insights, market trends, and business objectives.
• Oversee feasibility studies, concept testing, prototype development, and go-to-market planning.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to manage project teams, timelines, resources, budgets and NPD objectives.
• Monitor and report on innovation KPIs and product performance post-launch.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality standards across all innovations and NPD.
• Work in close partnership with Marketing, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Finance, and Sales to develop forward looking solutions that respond to shifting consumer demands and emerging market trends.
• Engage strategically with external partners, suppliers, and key customers to co-develop winning solutions that drive mutual value and competitive advantage.

What We’re Looking For:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Food Technology, Engineering, or a related field (Postgraduate qualifications desirable).
• 8+ years of experience in R&D, Product Development, Innovation Leadership, or Brand Innovation—preferably in FMCG, food & beverage, manufacturing or related sectors.
• Deep understanding of innovation frameworks, design thinking, and stage-gate processes.
• Strong knowledge of product development processes, regulatory standards, and quality assurance.
• Ability to balance creativity with commercial acumen.
• Proven track record of managing the end-to-end NPD lifecycle from concept to commercialization.
• Strong project management and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to convert ideas into tangible products.

Why Join Us? 
At CJ Patel, our Values guide everything we do:
We are committed to Excellence in everything we do. We give our very best.
We have Integrity. We are open, honest and ethical in our interaction with others.
We work and win as One Team. Everyone’s contribution counts.
We are a Family Business. We foster a sense of purpose and belonging.

How to apply:
If you're ready to shape the future of innovation with us, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and Cover Letter to Email: [email protected] with the subject line: “Head of Innovation and NPD ”or connect with us via CJ Patel Group of Companies LinkedIn Page.

Application closes 18th July 2025