NPD Manager

Associ8 Solutions; Ellesmere; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturer in the UK is seeking an experienced NPD Manager to spearhead product development in the chilled protein sector. This high-impact role involves managing innovation from concept to launch, collaborating with cross-functional teams, engaging with retail customers, and monitoring market trends. Ideal candidates have proven NPD experience in food manufacturing and a passion for consumer-led innovation. Join a dynamic company committed to quality and innovation.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in NPD within chilled food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of stage-gate processes and commercial viability.
• Confident communicator with cross-functional leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end NPD across chilled beef and protein categories.
• Manage concept development and launch readiness.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure feasibility and compliance.
• Engage with retail customers to present concepts.
• Monitor market trends to inform pipeline development.

Skills

NPD experience

Understanding retailer expectations

Cross-functional leadership

Passion for food innovation

Market trend analysis

Job description

We're working with a leading food manufacturer in the chilled protein sector, known for its scale, innovation, and strong retailer partnerships. They're currently seeking a commercially astute NPD Manager to lead product development across beef and added‑value categories, driving innovation from concept to launch.

This is a high‑impact role with visibility across retail and foodservice channels, offering the opportunity to shape category strategy, lead cross‑functional projects, and deliver commercially viable, consumer‑led innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end NPD across chilled beef and protein categories
• Manage concept development, factory trials, and launch readiness
• Collaborate with Commercial, Technical, and Operations teams to ensure feasibility and compliance
• Engage directly with retail customers to present concepts and manage feedback
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity to inform pipeline development
• Support continuous improvement across NPD processes and critical path management

Candidate Profile

• Proven experience in NPD within chilled food manufacturing (protein experience preferred)
• Strong understanding of retailer expectations, stage‑gate processes, and commercial viability
• Confident communicator with cross‑functional leadership skills
• Passionate about food innovation and consumer trends
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, commercially driven environment

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a business with scale, ambition, and a reputation for quality. If you're ready to lead innovation in a dynamic protein category, we'd love to hear from you.