New Product Development Manager

We are recruiting for an experienced NPD Manager to join a leading UK food manufacturer on a 12-month fixed-term contract/perm.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of key product development projects, manage a small team and build strong relationships with major UK retail customers.

The role requires regular commuting between two manufacturing sites, alongside occasional travel to customer meetings.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full NPD process from concept and recipe development through to factory trials and successful launch.
• Lead and develop a small NPD team.
• Manage a key retail customer account, building strong relationships and ensuring customer expectations are met.
• Work closely with Technical, Operations and Commercial teams to deliver innovative, commercially viable products.
• Oversee project timelines, product specifications and launch readiness.
• Ensure products meet retailer standards, quality requirements and manufacturing capabilities.
• Collaborate across two manufacturing sites to support successful project delivery.

About You

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in NPD within food manufacturing or FMCG.
• Proven track record of delivering products from concept through to launch.
• Experience working with major UK retailers.
• Previous team management or leadership experience.
• Strong commercial awareness, communication and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel regularly between two sites.

What’s on Offer?

• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Wellbeing support and 24/7 GP access

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