NPD Project Manager

JR United Kingdom; Newry; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Food Manufacturing business is seeking an NPD Project Manager in Newry. The role involves overseeing new product projects, collaborating with teams, and ensuring products meet quality standards. Ideal candidates will have a background in food science and strong project management skills.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing product launches.
• Strong focus on quality and efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the development and execution of new product projects.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Skills

Communication

Project Management

Organizational Skills

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Education

Third-level qualification in food science

Job description

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Salary: Competitive DOE
Location: Newry (Hybrid working)

Role Overview:
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented NPD Project Manager to oversee the development and execution of new product projects. Joining a leading Food Manufacturing business this role will require close collaboration with both internal and external teams to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality products while meeting all necessary cost and efficiency targets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Interpret customer briefs and present concepts to internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Work closely with operational, procurement, and commercial teams to assess the cost and feasibility of new product ideas before trialling.
• Plan and execute factory trials in partnership with the production team, ensuring the timely delivery of product samples through the development of both NPD and EPD products.
• Collect, document, and analyse relevant data from trials, including organoleptic and microbiological analysis. Ensure that all product costings and Quality Attribute Sheets are accurately completed.
• Take proactive steps to address feedback from customer meetings, ensuring all actions are implemented in a timely and efficient manner.
• Ensure that all developed products meet customer requirements and are of the highest possible quality.
• Provide necessary information to ensure the NPD process stays on track and critical project milestones are met within the agreed timeframes.
• Stay updated on relevant legislative changes and emerging culinary trends to ensure product development is in line with industry standards and forward-looking requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, raw material suppliers, and packaging suppliers, facilitating smooth product development processes.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and health & safety standards at all times.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Proven experience in managing or contributing to the successful launch of products into the market.
• A relevant third-level qualification, preferably in food science or a related field.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers and suppliers, demonstrating confidence in communication and project management.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across different functional departments.
• Highly detail-oriented, with a strong focus on quality and efficiency.
• Professional communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to represent the company in customer-facing settings.