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The Company
Join an award-winning food innovator and lead exciting new product launches while working with a brand-new, purpose-built test kitchen and managing your own skilled team in a fast-growing business that's investing heavily in its future.
Overview:
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a New Product Development (NPD) Manager to join a dynamic food manufacturer based in South Wales. The company has a strong track record of innovation with an ambitious pipeline of launches planned over the coming years, and is currently investing in state-of-the-art facilities to support future growth.
This role is ideal for a passionate foodie who enjoys working with ingredients and wants to be hands-on in developing both branded and own-label products from concept to launch.
Reporting directly to the Head of Commercial, you'll lead the end-to-end NPD process and manage a small, skilled team including a Packaging Technologist and an NPD Process Technician. Working cross-functionally with Commercial, Technical, Operations, and Marketing teams, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering innovation that meets both customer and commercial needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the full NPD lifecycle, from initial concept through to market launch
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and successful project delivery
- Oversee and support the development of direct reports in packaging and process development roles
- Partner with National Account Managers and Brand teams to translate market insights into winning products
- Conduct market trend and competitor analysis to drive innovation and identify opportunities
- Manage critical paths, resources, and budgets to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery
- Maximise use of the new test kitchen facility for creative development, trials, and presentations
- Support product trials, shelf-life testing, and internal/external product showcases
Requirements:
- Strong background in food NPD, ideally within dairy, spreads, or similar chilled categories
- Passion for food, ingredients, and innovation
- Proven experience managing the concept-to-launch process
- Skilled in leading and developing teams
- Excellent communication and project management skills
- Ability to work collaboratively across multiple functions and levels
