NPD Innovation Manager

Resourcing Partnership Ltd; Thornhill; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturer in South Wales is seeking a New Product Development Manager. The successful candidate will lead the full NPD lifecycle from concept to market launch, overseeing a skilled team. Ideal applicants will have a strong background in food NPD and a passion for innovation. Excellent project management and collaboration skills are essential for this dynamic role.

Qualifications

• Strong background in food NPD, ideally within dairy or similar chilled categories.
• Passion for food, ingredients, and innovation.
• Proven experience managing the concept-to-launch process.

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.

Skills

Food NPD experience

Team leadership

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Job description

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