NPD Manager

TN United Kingdom; St Albans; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an NPD Manager to drive product innovation and development. In this pivotal role, you will manage the entire process of new product development, ensuring that innovative concepts meet technical and quality standards. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, you will build supplier relationships and execute projects that enhance the product range. If you have a passion for creativity and a strong background in food science or technology, this opportunity is perfect for you to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in NPD roles with proven success.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Support NPD pipeline development and project manage from concept to launch.
• Ensure compliance with food legislation and packaging standards.

Skills

Project Management

NPD Experience

Quality Functions Understanding

Packaging Knowledge

Effective Presentation Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Degree in Food Science

Degree in Food Technology

Degree in Nutrition

Job description

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Job Title: NPD Manager

Your role as an NPD manager is to support the development and optimisation of the company’s product range in line with the strategy defined for the business. You will work on EPD for both products and pack formats, as well as introduce and refine new innovative product concepts through the development process, ensuring that technical and quality standards are achieved and maintained. Working closely with all cross-functional teams, you will lead and project manage all EPD and NPD from concept to successful launch.

Responsibilities:

1. Support the head of NPD in developing the NPD pipeline and strategy, providing expertise, advising on technical and operational requirements, and sharing market knowledge.
2. Project manage all NPD projects from concept to launch, collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet timelines and criteria, often working under tight deadlines and aligned with business strategy.
3. Build and maintain supplier relationships to source innovation.
4. Identify and execute EPD projects on product and packaging to improve the core product range.
5. Ensure compliance with relevant food legislation, packaging standards, and health claims.
6. Collaborate with manufacturing partners to ensure high standards of production, identifying opportunities for process improvements.
7. Travel to supplier bases and trade shows as required.

Profile:

We value our TOP principles of Team Spirit, Open Dialogue, and Passion. The key qualities we seek include:

• 4+ years’ experience in a similar NPD role
• Proven success in NPD projects
• Good understanding of quality functions
• Knowledge of packaging
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Effective presentation skills with confidence to influence senior stakeholders

Ideal candidates will have a degree in food science, food technology, or nutrition, with previous product development and project management experience. A passion for product innovation, creativity, market trend awareness, and excellent communication skills are essential.