Senior Innovation Manager

Mackenzie Jones; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 67,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Innovation Manager to spearhead innovative projects across a diverse portfolio of food brands. This pivotal role involves leading cross-functional teams to drive new product development and managing the innovation pipeline from concept to launch. With a strong focus on collaboration and stakeholder engagement, you will help shape the future of the brand's offerings. The company values diversity and is committed to an inclusive work environment, making this an exciting opportunity for passionate innovators looking to make a significant impact.

Benefits

Car Allowance

Bonus

Hybrid Working

25 days annual leave

Pension

Healthcare scheme

Tailored development goals

Qualifications

• Experience in FMCG innovation management, especially in food.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead innovation programs from ideation to launch, focusing on front-end innovation.
• Shape a 3-5 year innovation funnel, identifying NPD opportunities.

Skills

Innovation Management

Cross-functional Leadership

Stakeholder Management

New Product Development (NPD)

Problem Solving

Job description

Senior Innovation Manager

FMCG - Food

Reading (hybrid)

c.£67,000 + Car Allowance + Bonus + Benefits

The opportunity:

A high-profile position bringing to life an innovation pipeline across a portfolio of brands. The Innovation Manager will be a key member of a new team, as the business doubles down on Innovation.

What will my accountabilities be?

1. Lead and develop key innovation programmes and projects, from ideation to concept development through the stage gate process and up to launch. This position will have a major focus on front-end innovation, balancing brand and commercial considerations. The Senior Innovation Manager will lead functionally diverse stakeholders down a clear and connected path.
2. Help shape a 3-5 year Innovation funnel, identifying and evaluating NPD opportunities within new and existing categories.

Who will I be working with?

• Reporting to the Head of Innovation as part of the wider Marketing function.
• Partner with Category, Brand, Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Technical teams.

A great candidate will have:

• Experience of delivering innovation within an FMCG environment – preferably food.
• Cross-functional, programme/project leadership, building powerful partnerships and effectively influencing multiple stakeholders.
• Passionate about NPD, able to deal with ambiguity and overcome obstacles.

In return for everything you can bring, we can offer you:

• £67,000 Salary
• £7,000 Car Allowance
• Bonus
• Hybrid Working (3 days a week in office)
• 25 days annual leave plus eight bank holidays, as well as a purchase scheme of up to an additional two days per year.
• Pension
• Healthcare scheme
• Tailored development goals.

The Process?

1. Apply today with your most up-to-date CV that will be reviewed by our MKJ Recruitment team.
2. First Stage: 60 minute meeting with the hiring manager.
3. Second Stage: In person interview at their offices.

People are at the heart of everything we do. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process that means people can be their best authentic self.