NPD Manager

The company

Ready to take ownership of a high-profile development programme and lead it from initial concept through to successful launch?

This is an opportunity to join an established, multi-site business with a collaborative approach to development and a strong focus on delivering for its customers. You’ll become part of an experienced cross-functional environment where development works closely with commercial and operational teams, giving you real visibility and influence.

The opportunity

You will:

• Lead NPD and EPD projects from concept and trials through to scale-up and launch.
• Take ownership of a strategically important customer account, managing communication, progress and issue resolution.
• Translate briefs into commercially viable, operationally achievable products.
• Lead and develop a small team, setting priorities and coaching colleagues.
• Build effective relationships across Commercial, Operations, Process and Technical teams.
• Stay hands-on with development activity, including samples, trials and customer requirements.
• Manage critical paths, risks and launch readiness across multiple projects and locations.

The candidate

You’ll bring NPD experience from food manufacturing, with evidence of taking complex projects from brief through to launch. You’ll also have customer-facing experience, strong people leadership skills and the ability to influence across functions while maintaining pace and attention to detail.

A relevant degree, equivalent professional experience or qualification is required, and flexibility to travel.

If you’re an accomplished NPD professional looking for a role combining leadership, customer ownership and hands-on delivery, I'd welcome a confidential conversation.