The Company

One of the UK’s leading food manufacturers, this company has a long-standing heritage in producing high quality, premium foods. The company has grown significantly over the years, developing an extensive chilled product portfolio.

A strong presence across the major multiples and with their own brand, the business has built an excellent reputation for challenging convention, driving product innovation and responding to changing consumer demands. The company continues to invest in its people, facilities and product development capabilities, with innovation, quality and sustainability remaining at the heart of its growth strategy.

The Role

Reporting to the Head of NPD, you will work as part of a dedicated Innovations team to manage product development for your key retail customer.

You’ll take concepts from initial brief through to successful launch, managing the development process, coordinating bench and factory trials, and ensuring products meet customer expectations and commercial objectives.

You will play a key role in building and maintaining strong customer relationships, preparing and leading customer presentations, gathering feedback and translating insights into successful product development opportunities.

Working collaboratively with technical, commercial and production teams, you will manage ongoing NPD and EPD projects, while also supporting and developing the capabilities of your team.

Keeping up to date with emerging food trends, consumer insights and legislative requirements will be essential, as will identifying opportunities for growth and ensuring the business remains ahead of the market.

The Person

You will be an experienced NPD professional with at least five years’ experience in an NPD Manager role within the food manufacturing industry, supported by a food science or nutrition-related qualification. Previous experience of managing and developing a team is needed.

You will have a proven track record of building relationships with major retail customers and working collaboratively with ingredient and packaging suppliers to drive product improvements and innovation.

A commercially minded and highly organised individual, you will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, alongside strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

You will be confident managing multiple projects, taking ownership of delivering results, with a good understanding of profitability and business priorities.

This is a great customer facing role for an ambitious NPD Manager who is looking to grow and develop their career.

Please apply or call us for a confidential chat – 0345 2600 737 or 07700 137 110

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