HTS Taste Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: HTS Taste Design Manager

Company: JT International S.A.

Location: Geneva, Switzerland

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Category: Product Development & Innovation Operations

Date Posted: August 19, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage end-to-end product development projects within the Reduced Risk Products (RRP) category, with a specific focus on Heated Tobacco Products (HTP) and emerging platforms like Nicotine Pouches.

• Translate complex consumer, sensory, and business insights into tangible product development opportunities and strategic innovation initiatives.

• Drive continuous improvement in product development methodologies, processes, and cross-functional ways of working to enhance efficiency and product performance.

• Facilitate data-driven decision-making through rigorous product evaluation, leading to informed portfolio and product strategy recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within the operations of product development, focusing on the strategic and tactical execution of bringing new Reduced Risk Products to market. It requires a blend of scientific understanding, market insight, and project management to ensure successful product launches and continuous portfolio enhancement. The emphasis on "HTS Taste Design" suggests a strong focus on the sensory and flavor profiles of the products, requiring a deep understanding of consumer preferences in this domain.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead multiple product development projects from ideation through to commercialization, ensuring alignment with category objectives and consumer relevance.

• Translate consumer, sensory, and business insights into actionable product development briefs and opportunities, driving innovation within the RRP portfolio.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders across Research & Development (R&D), Scientific Regulatory Affairs (SRA), Brand teams, and the Project Management Office (PMO).

• Implement and refine product development methodologies, processes, and operational workflows to optimize project timelines, resource allocation, and overall efficiency.

• Lead comprehensive product evaluation activities, leveraging sensory, consumer, market, and technical data to provide data-backed recommendations for portfolio optimization and strategic product decisions.

• Coordinate and manage project plans, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder alignment for multiple concurrent product development initiatives.

• Engage with and manage external suppliers, agencies, and development partners to support innovation objectives and leverage external expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a project management and strategic execution function within product development. The role requires a candidate who can not only manage projects but also influence strategy through data-driven insights and cross-functional collaboration. The emphasis on "driving improvements in methodologies, processes, and ways of working" indicates a strong operational focus on optimizing the product development lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• University degree in Marketing, Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.

• A Bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement, with advanced degrees potentially offering a competitive advantage. Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in product development, sensory science, consumer insights, innovation management, category management, flavour development, or related operational fields.

• Demonstrated experience in managing complex product development and innovation processes from concept to launch. Required Skills:

• Product Development Expertise: Proven track record in leading and executing product development projects, particularly within consumer goods or regulated product categories.

• Sensory Science & Consumer Insights: Strong ability to translate sensory data and consumer feedback into actionable product design strategies and flavour profiles.

• Innovation Management: Experience in identifying, evaluating, and developing new product concepts and platforms.

• Project Management: Proficient in coordinating project plans, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder alignment across multiple initiatives.

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Strong analytical mindset with experience interpreting sensory, consumer, market, and technical data to drive decisions.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to influence, communicate, and manage expectations across diverse internal and external stakeholders.

• Business Acumen: Ability to connect consumer insights and strategic objectives to actionable product plans and manage priorities in a dynamic environment.

• Professional English Proficiency: Clear and effective communication in written and verbal English.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the tobacco or reduced-risk product industry.

• Familiarity with flavour chemistry or food science principles.

• Knowledge of regulatory affairs related to product development.

• Experience working with external suppliers and development partners.

• Adaptability and eagerness to learn across diverse product categories and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical understanding (science, engineering, flavour development), market acumen (marketing, consumer insights, category management), and robust operational skills (project management, stakeholder management, data analysis). The requirement for 5-10 years of experience suggests a mid-to-senior level role where strategic input and independent project leadership are expected.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful leadership of product development projects, showcasing the entire lifecycle from concept to launch, with a focus on the "Taste Design" aspect.

• Provide case studies illustrating how consumer and sensory insights were translated into tangible product improvements or new product offerings.

• Showcase examples of process optimization or methodology improvements within product development or innovation workflows.

• Include evidence of data analysis and interpretation, particularly related to sensory, consumer, or market data, and how it informed product decisions. Process Documentation:

• Examples of project plans, timelines, and risk assessments for complex product development initiatives.

• Documentation demonstrating collaboration and communication strategies used to align diverse stakeholders (R&D, Marketing, Regulatory, PMO).

• Evidence of analytical frameworks or templates used for product evaluation and decision-making.

• Case studies detailing how external partners or suppliers were managed to achieve project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on product development operations, a portfolio should highlight not just the outcomes but also the process by which those outcomes were achieved. Emphasis should be placed on how the candidate managed complexity, drove efficiency, and leveraged data to deliver successful product innovations, particularly those related to taste and sensory experience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a HTS Taste Design Manager role with 5-10 years of experience in Geneva, Switzerland, the estimated annual salary range is CHF 120,000 - CHF 160,000.

• This estimate considers the high cost of living in Geneva, the specialized nature of the role (HTS Taste Design, RRP category), and the experience level required. Benefits:

• Competitive health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.

• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave.

• Retirement savings plan with potential company contributions.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, conferences, and further education support.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and other incentives.

• Employee assistance programs and well-being initiatives. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be offered, but the role is primarily on-site, requiring presence for project coordination, lab work, and cross-functional meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary and benefits for roles in Geneva are typically competitive due to the city's status as a global hub and high cost of living. The benefits package is expected to be comprehensive, reflecting JTI's position as a large multinational corporation. The 40-hour work week is standard, but the on-site requirement suggests a need for consistent availability during business hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Tobacco Products and Reduced Risk Products (RRP). JTI operates in a highly regulated and competitive global market, with a strategic focus on innovation and diversification into next-generation products.

Company Size: JTI is a large multinational corporation with approximately 46,000 employees worldwide. This scale implies structured processes, global reach, and significant resources for R&D and innovation.

Founded: JTI was established in 1999, following the acquisition of RJR Nabisco's international operations. Its history is rooted in global tobacco but is increasingly defined by its expansion into RRP.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within a Product Development or R&D function, specifically dedicated to the Reduced Risk Products category.

• The team structure would involve close collaboration with individuals from R&D, Sensory Science, Consumer Insights, Brand Marketing, Regulatory Affairs, and Project Management.

• Reporting lines will likely lead up to a Director or VP of Product Development within the RRP division. Methodology:

• JTI emphasizes a data-driven approach to product development, integrating consumer, sensory, and market insights to guide innovation.

• The company fosters a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging the refinement of development methodologies and operational efficiencies.

• Collaboration is key, with a focus on cross-functional teamwork and strong relationships with external partners to drive innovation.

Company Website: https://www.jti.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: JTI's focus on RRP and innovation suggests a forward-thinking operational environment within a traditional industry. The company culture appears to value diversity, employee well-being, and continuous growth, as highlighted by their "human best" and "celebrate differences" messaging.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Managerial level within Product Development Operations. It requires independent leadership of significant projects and a substantial contribution to strategic product planning and process improvement.

Reporting Structure: The HTS Taste Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the RRP Product Development or R&D organization, such as a Director or Vice President. They will collaborate extensively with peers in R&D, Marketing, and PMO.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on JTI's innovation pipeline and the successful launch of new Reduced Risk Products. By translating insights into compelling product designs and optimizing development processes, this role contributes significantly to consumer satisfaction, market competitiveness, and the company's strategic shift towards RRP.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in Heated Tobacco Products, Nicotine Pouches, or other emerging RRP categories, potentially leading to Principal Scientist or Senior Manager roles within specific product platforms.

• Leadership: Progress to a Director-level position overseeing a broader product development portfolio or a larger team, with increased strategic responsibility.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Transition into roles within Marketing, Category Management, or Strategic Innovation, leveraging a strong understanding of product development and consumer needs.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities may exist for international assignments within JTI's global network of R&D and product development centers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role is geared towards leadership within product development, with potential to influence broader RRP strategy. The emphasis on innovation and emerging product categories suggests a dynamic environment with ample opportunity for professional growth and skill diversification.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Geneva, Switzerland, a major international hub. The office environment is expected to be modern and professional, designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s): The specific office location is Geneva, Switzerland (postal code 1202). This location offers access to a vibrant international community and excellent infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve a combination of office-based work for strategic planning, stakeholder meetings, and data analysis, and potentially laboratory or pilot plant environments for product evaluation and testing.

• Access to advanced sensory analysis equipment, data analytics tools, and project management software will be provided.

• Opportunities for collaboration with a diverse, international team of scientists, marketers, and project managers will be frequent. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, primarily on-site.

• While core hours will apply, there may be some flexibility for managing project timelines and personal needs, within the operational requirements of product development cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Geneva underscores the collaborative and hands-on nature of product development, especially in areas like taste design. The environment is expected to be conducive to scientific inquiry, strategic planning, and cross-functional teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A phone screening with a Talent Advisor to assess overall fit, experience, and motivation.

• Assessment Tests: Candidates may undergo technical or psychometric assessments to evaluate skills in areas like data analysis, sensory perception, or project management.

• Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews, likely including:

  • An interview with the hiring manager focusing on technical expertise, project leadership, and operational approach.
  • Interviews with key stakeholders (e.g., R&D leads, Brand managers, PMO) to assess collaboration and cross-functional alignment.
  • A potential interview with a senior leader to evaluate strategic thinking and cultural fit.

• Offer: Final stage involving offer negotiation and acceptance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project in your portfolio, clearly articulate the problem, your approach (methodologies, tools used), the challenges faced, your specific contributions, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., product success metrics, process improvements, cost savings, timeline adherence).

• Focus on Taste Design & Insights: Emphasize projects where you translated sensory data and consumer insights into tangible product improvements. Detail your role in flavour development, sensory evaluation, and how you ensured consumer relevance.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Showcase how you effectively managed stakeholders across different departments (R&D, Marketing, Regulatory, PMO) and external partners.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For instance, "Reduced product development cycle time by 15%" or "Increased consumer acceptance scores by 10% through targeted flavour modifications."

• Tailor to JTI: Research JTI's RRP portfolio and strategic direction to tailor your presentation and examples to their specific interests and challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case studies that involve translating consumer needs into product specifications, optimizing a product development process, or evaluating product performance data.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex technical or consumer data.

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach managing competing priorities or resolving conflicts between different stakeholder groups.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process suggests a thorough evaluation of technical skills, operational capabilities, and interpersonal effectiveness. A well-curated portfolio that clearly demonstrates the candidate's ability to manage product development operations, particularly in taste design and innovation, will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar platforms for planning, tracking, and managing project timelines and deliverables.

• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools: Experience with software such as Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables), R, Python, Tableau, Power BI, or specialized statistical software for analyzing sensory, consumer, and market data.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication and team collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing and sharing project-related documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for statistical analysis of sensory panel data and consumer research findings.

• Software for market data analysis and competitive intelligence.

• Platforms for generating reports and dashboards on product development progress and performance. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how product development interfaces with customer feedback loops or sales data may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools could be advantageous for process improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires strong analytical and project management capabilities, supported by proficiency in standard office and specialized data analysis software. Familiarity with tools used in R&D and product development environments will be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Curiosity: A drive to explore new ideas, technologies, and product concepts, coupled with a curiosity to understand consumer preferences deeply.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A commitment to using robust data analysis (sensory, consumer, market, technical) to inform all aspects of product development and strategy.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A belief in the power of teamwork and cross-functional cooperation, as well as strong relationships with external partners.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A focus on optimizing processes, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing better ways of working to deliver results effectively.

• Consumer Centricity: A dedication to understanding and meeting consumer needs and preferences, particularly in the taste and sensory experience of products.

Collaboration Style:

• The approach will be highly collaborative, involving regular interaction with scientists, engineers, marketers, regulatory experts, and project managers.

• Expect a culture that encourages open discussion, constructive feedback, and shared problem-solving.

• The ability to influence without direct authority will be key, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: JTI's stated values of diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being are likely integrated into the team's operational ethos. The emphasis on "human best" and "bringing your human best" suggests a culture that values individual contributions within a supportive and collaborative framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Working within the evolving and stringent regulatory environment for tobacco and RRP products requires constant awareness and adaptation.

• Balancing Innovation with Feasibility: Developing novel products while ensuring they are technically feasible, cost-effective, and meet consumer expectations can be a complex balancing act.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Aligning the objectives and priorities of various internal departments (R&D, Marketing, Legal, Operations) and external partners requires strong negotiation and communication skills.

• Rapid Market Evolution: The RRP market is dynamic, requiring continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies, consumer trends, and competitive offerings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening RRP Expertise: Opportunities to become a subject matter expert in specific RRP categories (HTP, Nicotine Pouches) and their associated technologies and consumer preferences.

• Advanced Sensory & Consumer Science: Access to training and development in cutting-edge sensory evaluation techniques and consumer insight methodologies.

• Process Optimization & Project Management: Formal training or certifications in advanced project management or operational excellence methodologies.

• Leadership Development: Programs designed to enhance leadership skills, strategic thinking, and cross-cultural management within a global organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities to contribute to a rapidly evolving product category. The challenges are inherent to innovation in a regulated industry, but they also present avenues for substantial professional growth and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you translated complex consumer or sensory data into a successful product development initiative. What was your process, and what were the key outcomes?" (Focus on your analytical process, insight generation, and impact).

• "How would you approach optimizing the product development process for Heated Tobacco Products to improve efficiency and speed to market?" (Highlight your understanding of process improvement methodologies and operational challenges).

• "Walk me through a challenging stakeholder management situation you encountered during a product launch or development project. How did you navigate it, and what did you learn?" (Demonstrate your communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about JTI's focus on Reduced Risk Products, and how do you see your role contributing to that strategy?" (Showcase your understanding of the industry and your alignment with JTI's vision).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within your projects, especially when working with diverse teams like R&D, Marketing, and Regulatory?" (Provide specific examples of your collaborative approach).

• "Describe a situation where you had to adapt to unexpected challenges or changes during a product development cycle. What was your approach, and what was the result?" (Highlight your adaptability and problem-solving skills). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio around key projects. For each, clearly state the objective, your role, the methodology employed (especially regarding taste design and consumer insights), the challenges, your actions, and the measurable results.

• Quantify & Qualify: Use data to support your claims (e.g., percentage improvements, market share impact, cost savings). Also, use qualitative descriptions to convey the nuances of taste development and consumer perception.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your operational approach – how you managed timelines, resources, risks, and stakeholder communication.

• Connect to JTI: Frame your experience in the context of JTI's business and their RRP ambitions. Show how your skills and past successes align with the requirements of the HTS Taste Design Manager role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical expertise in taste design and product development but also strong operational leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to drive projects to successful completion within a complex organizational and regulatory environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the JTI careers portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your experience in product development, taste design, consumer insights translation, and operational project management. Tailor your descriptions to highlight achievements relevant to Heated Tobacco Products or similar categories.

• Optimize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience in product development methodologies, sensory science, data analysis, and stakeholder management. Use keywords from the job description and quantify your achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions, particularly those focusing on your project leadership, problem-solving skills, and ability to translate insights into product success. Practice presenting your portfolio highlights concisely.

• Research JTI: Gain a deep understanding of JTI's Reduced Risk Product portfolio, their market position, and their stated company values to effectively articulate your interest and fit during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.