NPD Manager: Bakery Product Innovation & Launch Lead

Blakeney Point Search & Selection; Scotland; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Blakeney Point Search & Selection is partnering with a bakery manufacturing business to recruit an experienced NPD Manager. You will lead the NPD function and manage a team of five direct reports, taking concepts from concept to successful factory launch.

In this fast-paced role you’ll drive multiple customer and innovation projects, collaborating with Commercial, Technical, Operations, Procurement and Quality teams to ensure products meet customer needs and manufacturing viability.

Qualifications

• Proven NPD experience within a food manufacturing environment.
• Experience managing products from concept through to launch.
• Previous team management experience with multiple direct reports.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Experience working cross-functionally with Technical, Operations and Commercial teams.
• Strong customer-facing and stakeholder management skills.
• Commercial focus in product development.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and develop a team of 5 NPD professionals.
• Manage full NPD process from concept through development, trials, scale-up and launch.
• Deliver multiple customer and innovation projects against agreed timescales.
• Work closely with Commercial, Technical, Operations, Procurement and Quality teams.
• Develop products that meet customer requirements while maintaining commercial and manufacturing viability.
• Coordinate factory trials and ensure successful transfer from development into production.
• Manage project critical paths and communicate progress to key stakeholders.
• Support the wider business with innovation, product improvement and development opportunities.
• Build strong relationships with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to the continued growth and development of the NPD function as part of a wider food manufacturing group.

Job description

Blakeney Point Search & Selection is partnering with a bakery manufacturing business to recruit an experienced NPD Manager. You will lead the NPD function and manage a team of five direct reports, taking concepts from concept to successful factory launch.

In this fast-paced role you’ll drive multiple customer and innovation projects, collaborating with Commercial, Technical, Operations, Procurement and Quality teams to ensure products meet customer needs and manufacturing viability.