NPD Manager (FTC)

The Company

These outstanding innovation specialists combine expert food industry knowledge, with strategic thinking and innovative R&D capabilities in order to make new products not just a concept, but a reality. Partnering with leading food industry giants, as well as start-ups and all that lies between, they are now seeking an accomplished NPD Manager to join their passionate team. 

Please note this is a 12-month FTC to cover maternity leave.

The Role

Reporting to the Head of Development you will manage a team of Product Developers, utilising your knowledge of R&D and product prototyping processes to spearhead the NPD conceptualization stages for key customers, new and existing.

You will oversee all R&D and NPD projects, help to map out the strategy through ideation sessions, manage all stages of the critical path and communicate key milestones to customers and internal teams.

The role will encompass creative development and commercial evaluation, as well as being mindful of technical / regulatory requirements. You will draw on your industry and product knowledge to encourage growth and a solution focused mindset within your team. An important aspect of the role will be working closely with customers, leading meetings and presentations, overseeing nutritional testing and taste panels.

You’ll need to be proactive and use your judgement on how to facilitate problem resolution as well as know when to escalate issues that may impact on the successful completion of projects. In addition, you will help to establish new ways of improving performance and maximising profitability of NPD projects.

The Person

A confident and knowledgeable Product Development professional who can utilise their strategic thinking and passion for innovation in a commercially driven, customer facing role. You will ideally have a Food Science or Nutrition degree and have honed your project management skills through various product development or R&D roles. You will need a keen eye for emerging food trends, excellent attention to detail and a systematic approach to tasks to drive results.

Drinks experience would be advantageous as would sensory training, however it’s your understanding of the technical aspects of NPD and the key drivers for getting products to market that will make you shine. You’ll have top notch interpersonal skills, be a great team leader with previous experience of managing and mentoring a small product team.   

In Return

·        Flexible Working

·        Unlimited Holiday (Within Reason!)

·        Day off on your birthday

·        Monthly Team Lunches

These roles don’t materialise often so please apply today or call us on 0345 2600 737 to discuss this opportunity in more detail.

Ref: F6708

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Due to the large number of applications our opportunities attract, it sometimes takes us time to thoroughly review and consider them all. We endeavour to respond to every application within 5 working days, however if you have not heard from us within this timeframe, we are sorry to say your application for the role has not been successful. To support you in showcasing your best self, we make sure that any necessary accommodations, whether physical or non-physical, are provided to assist you throughout the job application and interview process.

Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas.