Job Description

Are you dynamic and strategic thinking with a passion for driving and leading innovation, in chocolate and confectionery? If so, we are looking for an

NPD (New Product Development) Manager

to lead the end to end development of innovative food products, from from concept to market launch.

We're looking for someone who thrives on collaboration, is detail-oriented, and can deliver exceptional results in a fast-paced environment.

Role Overview

As

NPD Manager

, you will take full ownership of the development lifecycle of innovative food products, using the GATE process. You'll partner with cross-functional teams--including Marketing, Operations and Technical to deliver products that are on-brand, consumer-focused, and technically sound.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Product Development

Lead the ideation and development of new products aligned with consumer trends and business strategy. Collaborate with Sales to define product briefs and identify market opportunities.

Project Leadership

Manage multiple concurrent NPD projects, overseeing budgets, timelines and resources. Develop detailed project plans, proactively managing risks and ensuring milestone delivery.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Serve as the key liaison between internal departments and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment and communication across the board.

Product Specifications and Compliance

Develop and maintain accurate product specs, ensuring compliance with internal policies, BRC, and customer requirements. Oversee the creation and approval of technical documentation and sign-off packs.

Trial Management and Optimisation

Co-ordinate Factory trials and pilot runs; analyse outcomes and work with production to optimise processes for scalability. Work closely with Production to ensure scalability and efficiency in manufacturing processes.

Customer Engagement

Represent the business in customer meetings, presenting concepts and incorporating feedback into development.

Continuous Improvement

Monitor product performance post-launch and drive insights back into the NPD pipeline. Champion process improvements across the NPD lifecycle.
?

What You'll Bring

Proven experience in end-to-end NPD project management within the food or FMCG industry with a proven track record of successfully launching new products. Strong understanding of the GATE process and stage-gate methodologies. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g. BRC) and regulatory compliance. Ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders and tight timelines. A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with attention to detail.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Experience:

end-to-end NPD project management: 5 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person