NPD Manager
Role Overview
This is a key position within the Innovation & Development team, responsible for leading food innovation projects from initial concept through to full-scale production. The successful candidate will play a vital role in driving structured innovation, championing new ideas, and ensuring timely delivery of projects through a stage-gate process.
This role blends project management, technical know-how, and food industry experience to bring concepts to market that align with customer and business goals.
Key Responsibilities
* Drive projects through the company’s innovation framework (from ideation to post-launch review).
* Conduct feasibility assessments, coordinate pilot trials, and lead factory scale-ups.
* Attend all critical trial phases, especially during production scale-up.
* Use internal platforms to document project stages and maintain visibility across departments.
* Deliver professional presentations to customers and lead on-site visits when needed.
* Provide regular updates on the project pipeline and proactively flag delays or bottlenecks.
* Lead internal project reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
* Liaise with suppliers and customers to share insights and promote the organisation’s development capabilities.
* Oversee gate review meetings and ensure timely completion of all deliverables.
* Maintain high standards in cleanliness, safety, and operational protocols in all facilities used.
* Complete sensory evaluations, benchmarking, and product reviews as per innovation process.
* Undertake additional duties as directed by line management.
Experience & Background Required
* Minimum 3 years’ experience in food manufacturing, product development, or technical project management.
* Educated to degree level in Food Science, Technology, or a related discipline.
* Experience leading cross-functional teams and delivering customer-driven solutions in the food sector.
Skills & Competencies
* Excellent organisational and leadership skills.
* Proven track record in project delivery and innovation processes.
* Ability to communicate clearly across all levels of the business.
* Comfortable leading meetings, delivering presentations, and maintaining detailed records.
* Innovative thinking and a strong problem-solving approach.
* Proficient multitasker in a dynamic work environment.
* Strong attention to detail.
* Flexible and proactive attitude to meet project demands.
* Passionate about food quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
We look forward to hearing from you.
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