New Product Development (NPD) Manager – Part-Time (Permanent)Department:Technical / CommercialReports to:Technical Manager / Managing DirectorLocation:MonaghanContract:Permanent, Part-Time (2 Days per Week)Role OverviewThe NPD Manager will lead and manage the development of new meat products from concept through to launch on a permanent, part-time basis. Working closely with Technical, Production, Procurement and Commercial teams, this role will drive innovation, support customer briefs, and contribute to the ongoing growth of the company's product portfolio across Irish and export markets. The ideal candidate will deliver hands-on development while providing continuous support to the business in a flexible, long-term structure.Key ResponsibilitiesProduct DevelopmentLead the creation, formulation, and development of new meat products (raw, cooked, value-added, ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook).Manage the full NPD process—from concept development and lab trials to scale-up and factory commissioning.Coordinate with internal teams to ensure products meet quality, cost, and manufacturing requirements.Conduct sensory assessments, product benchmarking, and competitor analysis.Maintain accurate and organised records including recipes, specifications, technical documents, and formulations.Customer & Market EngagementWork directly with customers to understand briefs, product expectations, and technical requirements.Prepare and present product samples and concepts for customer meetings.Monitor industry trends, consumer insights, and innovation within the meat and convenience food sectors.Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to identify new market opportunities or gaps.Process & Technical SupportSupport production and technical teams during factory trials, ensuring a smooth transfer from development to manufacture.Ensure new products comply with food safety, regulatory, allergen and labelling requirements.Support ongoing BRCGS and customer audit readiness through accurate documentation and specification control.Commercial & Cost ManagementCollaborate with procurement and finance to ensure that ingredient and packaging choices align with cost targets.Develop product costings, margin analysis, and feasibility assessments for new concepts.Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance product quality and reduce costs.Person SpecificationEssentialDegree or equivalent in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.3–5+ years' experience in NPD within meat processing or the wider FMCG food industry.Strong understanding of meat formulation, processing and food safety principles.Hands-on, organised, and capable of managing multiple development projects.Excellent communication skills and experience working cross-functionally.Ability to operate independently in a part-time structure.DesirableExperience working with Irish/UK retail or foodservice customers.Knowledge of food and consumer trends within meat and protein categories.Experience with NPD systems, specification software, and BRCGS or Bord Bia requirements.Contract TermsEmployment Type: Permanent, part-timeHours: 2 days per week (flexible scheduling available)Location: On-site, MonaghanSalary: Competitive, based on experience