NPD Manager

Winsearch; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 59,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Winsearch is seeking an experienced NPD Manager in Rochdale to lead new product development from concept to launch. The role collaborates with internal teams, customers and suppliers to deliver innovative, cost-effective products that meet quality standards.

The position requires FMCG/NPD experience, strong project management and excellent stakeholder management, with a Monday–Friday, days-based schedule in a permanent role.

Qualifications

• Experience in NPD management within FMCG/food manufacturing.
• Proven track record taking products from concept to launch.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Commercially aware with understanding of product cost/value.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Right to Work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Lead NPD projects from concept through to launch.
• Develop and manage project plans, priorities and development timescales.
• Drive the innovation pipeline in line with commercial objectives.
• Collaborate with customers to understand requirements and develop viable product solutions.
• Identify market, consumer and competitor trends to support development.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to progress NPD projects.
• Ensure new products meet quality, cost and commercial expectations.
• Build relationships with suppliers to support innovation.
• Maintain project documentation and address delays.
• Support successful product launches and post-launch activity.
• Maintain relationships with customers and internal stakeholders.

Skills

NPD management

Project management

Stakeholder management

Commercial awareness

Communication skills

Education

Degree educated or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

NPD Manager

Rochdale, Greater Manchester

Up to £65,000 per annum

Days Based

Monday to Friday

Permanent

The Company

An established FMCG manufacturing business operating within a fast-paced and innovative environment. The business has a strong focus on quality, customer requirements and developing new products that respond to changing consumer and market demands.

The Role

They are looking for an experienced NPD Manager to lead new product development activity and work closely with internal teams, customers and suppliers to successfully bring new concepts to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead new product development projects from initial concept through to launch
• Develop and manage project plans, priorities and key development timescales
• Drive the innovation pipeline in line with commercial objectives and market opportunities
• Work closely with customers to understand requirements and develop commercially viable product solutions
• Identify emerging market, consumer and competitor trends to support future development
• Bring internal departments together to ensure NPD projects progress effectively
• Work alongside Commercial, Operations, Procurement, Technical and Process teams throughout development
• Ensure new products achieve the required quality, cost and commercial expectations
• Build effective relationships with suppliers and utilise their expertise to support innovation
• Coordinate product development activity while maintaining clear communication across the business
• Identify opportunities to improve NPD processes, efficiency and ways of working
• Support ingredient and packaging decisions with consideration for quality, availability and cost
• Maintain accurate project documentation and development records
• Monitor project progress and address potential delays or challenges
• Support successful product launches and post-launch activity
• Maintain strong relationships with customers and key internal stakeholders

The Person

• Previous NPD management experience within food manufacturing or a similar FMCG environment
• Strong experience taking new products from concept through development and into launch
• Genuine passion for food, innovation and product development
• Strong project management and organisational skills
• Commercially aware with an understanding of product cost and value
• Confident working directly with customers and managing key relationships
• Able to work effectively across Commercial, Technical, Operations, Procurement and Process functions
• Strong understanding of consumer trends and the wider FMCG market
• Creative approach to product development with the ability to turn ideas into deliverable projects
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple development projects simultaneously
• Degree educated or able to demonstrate strong relevant industry experienceConfident using Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
• Self-motivated, accountable and comfortable taking ownership of projects
• Right to Work in the UK

Keywords

NPD Manager, New Product Development Manager, Product Development Manager, Innovation Manager, Food NPD, FMCG NPD, Food Manufacturing, Product Innovation, Product Development, Concept Development, Product Launch, NPD Projects, Innovation, Customer NPD, FMCG Manufacturing, New Product Introduction, NPI, Product Commercialisation, Food Innovation, NPD Project Manager

At Winsearch, we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

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Many Thanks