Innovations & Operations Lead - EU/UK NPD & Co-Packing

The Hershey Company; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A global confectionery manufacturer in London seeks an Innovations/Operations Lead to drive new product development and co-packing initiatives across the UK and EU. The ideal candidate will have extensive project management experience, commercial acumen, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams. Responsibilities include managing product launches, coordinating with various stakeholders, and ensuring operational solutions align with commercial objectives. This role requires flexibility for travel within Europe and a strong foundation in supply chain processes.

Qualifications

• Experience with product development and co-packing in food or FMCG across UK and EU markets.
• Proven ability to run multiple projects through gate processes and launches.
• Basic finance understanding to develop and interpret product costing.
• Ability to clearly communicate with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams and manage NPD for UK and EU.
• Deliver operational and cost improvements for contracted co-packing activities.
• Maintain project plans, risk registers, and reporting for compliance.
• Develop operational solutions for innovation and commercialization.

Skills

Product development experience

Project management skills

Commercial acumen

Technical knowledge of packaging

Stakeholder influence

Education

BS/BA in Engineering, Science, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain or equivalent experience

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office

Job description

A global confectionery manufacturer in London seeks an Innovations/Operations Lead to drive new product development and co-packing initiatives across the UK and EU. The ideal candidate will have extensive project management experience, commercial acumen, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams. Responsibilities include managing product launches, coordinating with various stakeholders, and ensuring operational solutions align with commercial objectives. This role requires flexibility for travel within Europe and a strong foundation in supply chain processes.