NPD Lead I Stoke on Trent I Up to £45,000 per annum
Monday - Friday 8.00am - 4.00pm
We are seeking a passionate and innovative NPD Lead to join a well-established and highly respected food manufacturing business in Staffordshire.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic NPD function within a fast-paced environment, delivering high-quality raw and cooked meat products (chilled and frozen) across wholesale, retail, and B2B markets.
Reporting directly to the Sales Director, you will take ownership of the product development lifecycle-from concept through to successful factory launch-while also driving continuous improvements in manufacturing processes.
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Key Responsibilities
* Lead and develop the NPD function in line with the company's growth strategy
* Manage end-to-end product development projects from concept to launch
* Translate customer briefs into innovative, commercially viable products
* Ensure all NPD procedures, specifications, and factory documentation are completed accurately
* Oversee kitchen trials, factory trials, and product validation processes
* Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, consistency, and cost performance
* Collaborate closely with production, technical, purchasing, and sales teams
* Source and develop innovative ingredients and supplier solutions
* Conduct market research, trend analysis, and competitor benchmarking
* Present product concepts and proposals confidently to customers and stakeholders
* Support cost optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives
* Contribute to the wider strategic development of the business
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About You
We are looking for an ambitious and forward-thinking individual with a genuine passion for food innovation and product development.
Essential Criteria
* Proven experience within food manufacturing or FMCG
* Strong knowledge of NPD processes and product lifecycle management
* Previous leadership or team management experience
* Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills
* Strong project management and organisational ability
* Commercial awareness with a customer-focused mindset
* Proactive, hands-on approach with a "can-do" attitude
Ideally you will have
* Minimum 3 years' experience managing an NPD team or similar department
* Experience working with chilled and frozen food categories
* Experience working with both retail and B2B customer accounts
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This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact within a growing and energetic business that values innovation, quality, and collaboration. You will play a key role in shaping the future product portfolio while driving operational excellence.
Apply Now or contact keeley@kpir.co.uk
Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those shortlisted will be personally contacted.
INDCOM