Are you a customer-facing NPD professional who enjoys taking full ownership of projects in a fast-paced, multi-site environment?

This role offers the opportunity to lead new product development activity from concept through to launch, working closely with customers, suppliers, and internal teams. You’ll sit at the centre of innovation delivery, supported by a strong team structure, with clear scope to develop both your technical and commercial capability over time.

You will be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Managing end-to-end NPD projects from initial concept through to successful launch
• Interpreting customer briefs and translating them into clear development plans and commercial targets
• Leading kick-off meetings, regular project reviews, and site meetings to maintain momentum and alignment
• Preparing and delivering presentations to internal and external stakeholders, including samples and supporting documentation
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date project data within NPD/workflow systems to support costings, timelines, and reporting
• Guiding the team on sample submissions, tracking progress, managing timelines, and controlling costs
• Building and maintaining strong working relationships with customers and suppliers to support existing business and future opportunities
• Overseeing product launches to ensure workflow, deadlines, and customer expectations are met
• Managing project costings, margin control, and stock considerations within the team
• Coordinating benchmarking activity and managing award submissions where relevant
• Acting as a key customer contact, responding to queries and feedback in a timely and professional manner
• Monitoring market trends and competitor activity to inform product development strategy
• Ensuring all developments meet food safety, legal, and quality requirements
• Identifying risks early and implementing mitigation plans throughout the NPD process
• Working cross-functionally with technical, operations, finance, and commercial teams to deliver successful launches
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance NPD efficiency and effectiveness
• Maintaining clear, structured project documentation and reporting

What’s required?

• Minimum 3 years’ experience leading NPD projects from concept to launch
• Experience acting as the main contact for major customer accounts, including leading presentations and managing feedback
• Background in food manufacturing or a closely related sector with retailer or own-label exposure
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects across technical, operational, and commercial stakeholders
• Experience managing project costings, margins, and commercial targets
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a proactive, structured approach to work
• Confident communicator with experience presenting to internal and external audiences
• Self-motivated, inquisitive, and driven by continuous improvement
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a wider team
• Degree in a relevant science discipline or equivalent industry experience
• Experience using NPD or workflow management systems to maintain accurate project records
• Strong understanding of food safety and quality compliance within development projects

Desirable:
• Experience managing NPD projects for major UK retailers
• Experience mentoring or supporting junior team members
• Involvement in process improvement or continuous improvement initiatives
• Participation in industry award submissions or recognised NPD achievements

What’s in it for you?

A visible, influential NPD role within a fast-moving environment, offering strong customer exposure, multi-site responsibility, and genuine opportunity for long-term development.

Do you think you fit the criteria?
Want to find out more about the role?

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