Job Description Are you a hands-on innovation expert with a passion for pets? Ready to shape the future of some of the UK’s most loved pet brands? This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading pet food and accessories manufacturer with over 135 years of expertise and an ambitious growth agenda. We’re looking for a commercially minded, creative Innovation Manager to lead New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) projects from concept through to launch - driving innovation across a diverse and growing portfolio. About the Role Reporting to the Innovation Controller, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering the innovation pipeline across multiple brands and categories. You’ll take ownership of projects end-to-end, bringing ideas to life, working cross-functionally, and ensuring successful launches that meet both consumer needs and commercial goals. What You’ll Be Doing Lead NPD & EPD projects from concept to launch across product and packaging Develop and deliver innovation through a stage & gate process Identify new opportunities using consumer, shopper, and market insights Create and manage critical paths, ensuring projects land on time Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Brand, R&D, Commercial, Procurement, and Operations Develop compelling product propositions with clear target audiences Manage supplier relationships and support production trials Build and present sell-in decks to internal stakeholders and major retailers Monitor market trends and competitor activity to drive continuous innovation Contribute to “big bet” innovation projects and launch strategies What We’re Looking For You’re a strategic thinker who loves getting stuck in. You’re just as comfortable analysing data as you are presenting big ideas. Essential experience: Degree in Marketing or similar 4 years in innovation / NPD roles within FMCG or a brand-led business Proven track record of delivering product launches from concept to market Strong experience with stage & gate processes and critical path management Commercial acumen, including costings, pricing, and profitability Experience working with retailers (especially grocery) Strong stakeholder management across internal teams and external partners You’ll also be: Highly organised and able to manage multiple complex projects Creative, proactive, and solutions-focused Confident presenting to senior stakeholders and retailers Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-growth environment A genuine pet lover