Senior Development Manager

Samworth Brothers; Melton Mowbray; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Samworth Brothers is seeking a Senior Product Development Manager to spearhead innovative meal and side projects. In this vital role, you will oversee product development cycles, drive projects from concept to launch, and cultivate a strong NPD team. Join a family-oriented company that values diversity and fosters career growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Enhanced pension scheme

Private health scheme

Employee discount scheme

Annual pay reviews

Profit related pay

Training and growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in food manufacturing in a similar NPD role.
• Deep understanding of raw materials and factory processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the NPD team and coordinate projects from concept through to launch.
• Deliver market-leading food presentations and analyze trends.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Education

BSc or equivalent in a food-related discipline

Job description

Join the Samworth Brothers Team and become part of our dynamic family!

At Samworth Brothers, we genuinely care about our colleagues and strive to create an engaging environment that values your unique contributions. We are committed to your success and offer a range of exceptional benefits that support your life and personal aspirations:

• Enhanced pension scheme
• Private health scheme
• Employee discount scheme
• Experience annual pay reviews
• Profit related pay
• Unlock your potential through training and growth opportunities

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a passionate and creative Senior Product Development Manager to join our team and lead the delivery of innovative, commercially successful meals and sides in line with our growth strategy.

This role involves driving projects from concept to launch, overseeing product development across two manufacturing sites. You will refresh existing ranges and create new market-leading concepts, impacting shelves and kitchens across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the NPD team and coordinate projects from concept through to launch
• Own the customer critical path, ensuring alignment across Commercial, Category, Technical, and Procurement teams
• Deliver market-leading food presentations with support from our Chefs and Technologists
• Analyze trends and contribute to long-term category strategy
• Develop and mentor a high-performing team with clear PDPs and objectives

The Ideal Candidate

We value collaboration and diverse perspectives. The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience in food manufacturing in a similar NPD role
• BSc or equivalent in a food-related discipline
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills
• Deep understanding of raw materials, factory processes, and food trends
• Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail

We also seek individuals who thrive in an inclusive work culture, taking personal accountability and pride in their work. Positive communication and building strong relationships are essential.

Join us at Samworth Brothers, where you'll be more than just a team member — you'll be part of our thriving family. Apply today and start an exciting journey with us!

We are a fourth-generation family business producing high-quality own-label products for many UK retailers, including Ginsters, Soreen, Higgidy, Dickinson & Morris, Urban Eat, West Cornwall Pasty Company, and Walker & Son. We employ over 10,000 people across modern manufacturing sites nationwide.

At Samworth Brothers, we pride ourselves on our family-like culture and teamwork. We offer stability and opportunities for career progression within our wider group. We invite you to be part of our family and support our teams in delivering great products to our customers.

Samworth Brothers does not engage with unlicensed gangmasters or third parties. We will NEVER ask for money for employment. If in doubt, please contact an official Samworth Brothers representative.