Job Description
Vickerstock are delighted to be working in partnership with a well-established and growing food manufacturing business in the Ballymena area on the appointment of NPD Manager.
This is a key role within the technical team, responsible for driving new product development from concept through to launch, working closely with major retail customers and cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, commercially viable products.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage the full NPD process from concept to factory launch.
* Interpret customer briefs and develop commercially viable product solutions.
* Lead product trials, scale-up activities and first production runs.
* Ensure all products meet food safety, legal and retailer requirements.
* Develop and maintain product specifications, formulations and technical data.
* Coordinate project timelines, critical paths and launch activities.
* Liaise with customers, suppliers and internal teams to ensure project delivery.
* Support artwork, packaging and labelling development and approval.
* Troubleshoot issues during trials and drive successful product launches.
What you’ll need to succeed:
* Experience in an NPD or Technical role within food manufacturing.
* Strong understanding of retailer requirements and food safety standards (BRCGS).
* Proven experience managing product development from concept to launch.
* Experience running factory trials and product scale-up.
* Strong project management and organisational skills.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Desirable Criteria (it would be great if you have these but don’t worry if you don’t!)
* Experience within meat or chilled food manufacturing.
* Degree in Food Science, Food Technology or related discipline.
* HACCP Level 3 (or working towards).
* Experience with major UK retailers (e.g. Tesco).
Get in touch:
Sound like the career move you've been after and would like to hear more, pick up the phone to Anna now on T 028 9031 3720, or send an updated CV - in Word format - via the link on the page (or email).
If this opportunity doesn't quite get the taste buds flowing but like me you are passionate about food, let's get a chat and see how I can help grow your career.
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