NPD Project Manager (Food & Drink - SME Brand)

The People Co.; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing manufacturing firm in the UK is looking for a talented NPD Project Manager to drive product innovation and ensure compliance with food safety. The ideal candidate will have a food science background and strong project management skills. Responsibilities include managing the NPD process, collaborating with teams, and leading product trials. The role offers a competitive salary, healthcare, and a bonus scheme.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Healthcare

Bonus scheme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in product development and project management.
• Several years of management-level experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of food ingredients and food safety legislation.

Responsibilities

• Drive product innovation from concept to market.
• Manage full NPD lifecycle, ensuring timely and compliant execution.
• Collaborate with technical teams and suppliers for project success.

Skills

Project management

Food science

Trend analysis

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in food science or engineering

Job description

About Us

A dynamic, growing company supplying premium, bespoke ambient products to some of the UK’s top retailers, restaurants, and hotel chains. Operating from our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kent, we pride ourselves on delivering luxury and innovation to our prestigious clients.

The Opportunity

Due to our continued expansion, the company seeks a talented NPD Project Manager to drive our product innovation. If you have a background in food science or technology, coupled with strong project management skills, this is your chance to lead groundbreaking product development from concept to market. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping our product portfolio, staying ahead of food trends, and ensuring exceptional quality, safety, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspire Innovation: Foster a culture of creativity, identifying new opportunities in products, ingredients, packaging, and processes.
• Trend Forecasting: Anticipate consumer trends and market opportunities to drive future-focused product development.
• Project Leadership: Manage the full NPD lifecycle, from ideation to production, delivering projects on time, within budget, and in compliance with food safety regulations.
• Research & Development: Explore new ingredients, equipment, and processes, providing costed recommendations and investment proposals.
• Collaboration: Work closely with production, technical teams, and suppliers to ensure seamless project execution and product compliance.
• Trials & Training: Oversee product trials, training, and performance monitoring to ensure successful market launches.
• Client Engagement: Prepare compelling presentations, pricing structures, and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Supplier Partnerships: Collaborate with the Supply Chain Manager and Buyer to source high-quality, compliant ingredients.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate NPD recipes, specifications, and paperwork to support product development and compliance.

Who We’re Looking For

• A food science, engineering, or related degree with proven experience in product development and project management.
• Several years of management-level experience, ideally in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of food ingredients, packaging, processes, and food safety legislation (e.g., HACCP).
• A creative, proactive problem-solver with a passion for industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Excellent communication and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
• Confidence in managing budgets, leading trials, and delivering projects with precision and attention to detail.
• Experience with packaging development and client-focused technical solutions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, adapting to change and driving results.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to lead innovation in a thriving business, working with premium products and high-profile clients. With a competitive salary, healthcare, and bonus scheme, you’ll be rewarded for your creativity and impact.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV, including salary details, in strict confidence to James Constable at [e-mail]

Note: Due to the high volume of applications, we can only respond to successful candidates within one week. If you don’t hear from us, thank you for your interest, and we wish you success in your job search.