Project Development Manager

Role overview

This role is responsible for steering product development and commercialization work from start to finish across both existing product development and new product development streams. Based in Dubai, the position focuses on turning customer and business needs into successful launches by coordinating planning, governance, stakeholder alignment, risk control, and stage-gate delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Own end-to-end existing product development and commercialization initiatives, from customer brief through to launch.
• Manage several projects at the same time while keeping delivery aligned with timeline, budget, and business or customer expectations.
• Work in close coordination with R&D, Sales, Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain, Procurement, Quality, and other internal partners.
• Convert commercial and customer inputs into clear project plans and organize execution across all involved teams.
• Maintain project governance, track and mitigate risks, and ensure stage-gate milestones are completed effectively.
• Lead private label and customer-specific development efforts, including approvals and launch preparedness.
• Look for ways to improve project speed, reduce cycle times, and strengthen collaboration across functions.

Education and experience

The employer is looking for a candidate with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a similar field, along with 5 to 8 years of relevant experience in food and beverage product development and commercialization. Hands-on exposure to existing product development or new product development from concept to commercialization is needed. Experience with private label and/or branded product development is also preferred. A PMP certification or a relevant master’s degree would be considered an advantage.

About the company

Agthia Group PJSC is one of the Middle East’s major food and beverage businesses, with a growing international presence and a portfolio of more than 35 well-known brands across Water & Food, Snacking, Protein & Frozen, and Agri-Business. The organization serves millions of consumers in over 65 markets and emphasizes sustainability, innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Additional information

This is a full-time, onsite position in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The company highlights a competitive benefits package, room for professional growth, and a workplace culture that values creativity, teamwork, and making a meaningful impact.