567 Innovation Research jobs in Kenya

Industry
: Design Services / Arts & Crafts / Lifestyle Décor

Location
: Nairobi, Kenya

Employment Type
:(Onsite) Full-time

About Us

Nyota Living (under the Bobu Africa Lifestyle) is a purpose-driven cultural décor brand rooted in Africa and built to inspire the world. We collaborate with local artisans to create authentic, handcrafted pieces for hotels, lodges, safari camps, and export markets. Each product we design tells a story of heritage, wildlife, and community empowerment.

We are now seeking a passionate
Product Development Designer
to lead us in the creative journey from concept to finished product, working hand-in-hand with artisans to transform African traditions into contemporary, globally appealing décor.

Key Responsibilities.

1.Product Design & Development.

1.  Conceptualize from scratch and design handmade décor products aligned with brand identity and market demand.

2.  Translate design ideas into technical sketches, prototypes, and production-ready samples.

2.Artisan Collaboration.

1. Work closely with artisans to guide product creation, ensuring quality, consistency, and authenticity.

2. Develop and document SOPs for production processes.

3.Market Research & Trends.

1. Research global design trends, hospitality needs, and consumer preferences to inspire new collections.

2. Adapt traditional techniques into modern, functional, and export-ready designs.

4.Quality Assurance.

1.Ensure each product meets high standards of craftsmanship, durability, and sustainability.

2.Oversee sampling, testing, and refinement stages.

5.Project & Production Management.

1.Coordinate timelines, materials sourcing, and production processes.

2.Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to align design with customer expectations.

6.Innovation & Sustainability.

1.Drive design innovation while promoting eco-friendly practices.

2.Explore alternative materials that reflect African heritage, nature and wildlife while appealing to global markets.

Qualifications & Skills.

1.Degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or a related field.

2.2–4 years of experience in product development, preferably in crafts, décor, or handmade industries.

1. Strong portfolio showcasing creative design and product development skills.

2. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, SketchUp/AutoCAD etc with skills for 2D/3D modeling, technical drawings, and product visualization.

5.Knowledge of materials, finishes, and sustainable production methods.

6.Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with artisans and cross-functional teams.

1. Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple products simultaneously.

Why Join Us

1.Be part of a purpose-driven brand that celebrates Africa's cultural heritage.

2.Work directly with talented artisans and make a real community impact.

3.Opportunity to innovate.

1. A collaborative environment where creativity and storytelling thrive.

Ready to bring African stories to life through design? Apply today and be part of a movement redefining African décor for the world.

How to apply

Share your
CV AND PORTFOLIO(
MUST) to our Email: with Subject title as Your Name+Job Title.

• Lead the research and development of new FMCG products.
• Develop innovative product formulations and optimize existing ones.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and benchtop formulations.
• Manage sensory evaluation panels and analyze consumer feedback.
• Collaborate with marketing on product positioning and claims.
• Work with operations to scale up production from pilot to commercial levels.
• Ensure product compliance with food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Analyze market trends and competitor products.
• Prepare technical documentation and reports.
• Troubleshoot product-related issues throughout the lifecycle.

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development within the FMCG sector.
• Strong knowledge of formulation science, ingredient functionality, and processing technologies.
• Experience with sensory analysis and consumer product testing.
• Understanding of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, GMP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects remotely.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities for cross-functional collaboration.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and documentation practices.

• Lead the end-to-end product development process for new and existing products.
• Translate market requirements and customer needs into detailed product design specifications.
• Develop and execute robust testing and validation plans.
• Create and review CAD models, technical drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Collaborate with manufacturing partners to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM).
• Conduct root cause analysis for product failures and implement corrective actions.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations.
• Ensure product designs comply with relevant industry standards and regulations.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in product development and engineering, with a strong portfolio of launched products.
• Proven expertise in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and simulation tools.
• Solid understanding of materials science, manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, CNC machining, PCB assembly), and quality control methodologies.
• Experience managing complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of intellectual property and patent processes is a plus.

• Develop and execute comprehensive product development strategies and roadmaps.
• Conduct thorough market research, competitive analysis, and customer needs assessment.
• Define product requirements, features, and specifications based on market opportunities.
• Lead and manage cross-functional product development teams throughout the product lifecycle.
• Oversee the product development process, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and design teams to bring new products to life.
• Work closely with marketing and sales to develop successful go-to-market strategies.
• Manage product P&L and financial performance.
• Monitor product performance post-launch and identify areas for improvement or iteration.
• Act as a product champion, articulating the product vision and value proposition to stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies relevant to product development.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Marketing, or a related field. MBA or Master's degree preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in product management or product development, with a demonstrated track record of successful product launches.
• Strong understanding of product strategy, market analysis, and P&L management.
• Experience with agile development methodologies (Scrum, Kanban).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience in (Specify relevant industry, e.g., consumer electronics, software, pharmaceuticals) is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and prioritize effectively.
• Passion for innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

• Lead the ideation, concept development, and strategic planning for new FMCG products.
• Conduct thorough market research and consumer trend analysis to identify new opportunities.
• Develop product specifications, formulations, and packaging concepts.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to ensure product efficacy and safety standards are met.
• Oversee pilot production runs and product testing processes.
• Work closely with marketing and sales teams to develop go-to-market strategies.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards.
• Analyze product performance post-launch and identify areas for improvement.
• Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

• Proven experience in product development or brand management within the FMCG industry.
• Strong understanding of consumer goods market dynamics and consumer behavior.
• Demonstrated success in launching new products successfully.
• Excellent project management and cross-functional team leadership skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities.
• Proficiency in market research techniques and data analysis.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with product lifecycle management.
• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Food Science, or a related field.