Are you an experienced NPD leader looking to drive innovation, manage a high-performing team, and deliver exciting retail launches?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a fast-paced food manufacturer, leading the day-to-day activities of the NPD team while delivering innovative, customer-focused products from concept through to launch. Based in the South East with one day working from home, you'll work closely with key retailers and cross-functional teams to manage projects, develop new concepts, and ensure successful product launches. This role would suit an experienced NPD Manager with strong leadership skills, a commercial mindset, and a passion for innovation.

You will be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Leading and managing the day-to-day activities of the NPD team, ensuring projects are delivered on time and to the highest standard
• Owning the NPD project management process, overseeing multiple customer projects from concept through to launch
• Working collaboratively with commercial, category, procurement, packaging, technical, and operations teams to deliver successful customer solutions
• Managing customer tenders, development briefs, and project timelines to ensure all stakeholders remain aligned
• Supporting product development, factory trials, and launch activities to ensure products are commercially and operationally successful
• Leading customer-facing meetings, presentations, and innovation discussions throughout the development process
• Driving innovation through regular benchmarking, market research, and product trend analysis
• Planning and delivering innovation sessions to generate new product ideas and opportunities
• Developing best practice across the NPD function and ensuring effective communication of new processes and product information
• Monitoring product performance post-launch and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement
• Coaching and developing the NPD team to build capability and maintain a high-performing culture

What's required?

• A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Product Development, Food Innovation, or a related discipline
• Level 3 Food Safety & Hygiene qualification
• 5-10 years' experience within NPD in food manufacturing
• Previous line management experience with the ability to lead and develop a team
• A proven track record of delivering successful retail product launches from concept through to launch
• Strong project management and organisational skills
• Excellent commercial awareness and understanding of customer requirements
• Experience working cross-functionally within a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with customer-facing experience
• A passion for innovation, food trends, and continuous improvement

What's in it for you?

A fantastic opportunity to lead an established NPD team within an innovative and fast-paced business, working closely with major retailers and playing a key role in shaping the future product pipeline.

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

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