Description Summary The Senior National Account Project Manager will lead and deliver the successful delivery of NPD and own-label projects across drinks categories. This will be from initiation to completion, working with internal teams to ensure that products are developed, approved, and manufactured on time, in full, and to specification. Projects will typically be high-value or complex in nature but may also include a variety of other projects in order to support the volume of NPD enquiries in the commercial team. The role is responsible for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with strategic business objectives, while managing risk, compliance, and stakeholder expectations. This position requires strong commercial acumen, project leadership skills, and the ability to influence at senior levels. Once live, you will strategically manage your customer base to ensure increased volume and targets are achieved, supporting customers with updates, changes, and performance reviews. Working with key stakeholders to exploit new opportunities to achieve forecasts and budget with a customer led insights approach. Responsibilities Manage the end-to-end lifecycle of retailer and brand projects, from concept stage through to launch and ongoing supply, including: Define project scope, objectives, milestones, and deliverables in line with business goals. Monitor and control project progress, proactively addressing risks and issues. Develop and manage project budgets, forecasts, and financial models. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, partners, and regulatory bodies as applicable. Provide regular project updates, reporting progress, risks, and outcomes. Act as the primary escalation point for project issues. Mentor and develop commercial team members with regards to project management principles and effective project management. Promote a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, industry standards, and company policies. Act as the day-to-day account contact, ensuring customer needs are met and issues are resolved quickly. Build and maintain strong customer relationships with a solutions-focused, professional approach. Coordinate internal stakeholders (technical, supply chain, production) and external partners (suppliers, packaging). Maintain the highest level of sales administration including forecasting, accrual maintenance and P&L reviews Knowledge, Skills & Experience Proven experience in FMCG project management and/or account management (ideally drinks, food, or own-label). Minimum 2 years’ experience of managing a top 6 retailer or national convenience chain. Proficiency in project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, PMI, Agile). Developing and agreeing commercial proposals. A good level of numeracy with strong negotiation skills. Monitor ongoing projects to ensure consistency, quality, and supply continuity. Anticipate risks or delays and develop solutions to keep projects on track. Strategically manage your customer base to ensure increased volume and targets are achieved, supporting customers with updates, changes, and performance reviews. Working with key stakeholders to exploit new opportunities to achieve forecasts and budget with a customer led insights approach. Strong organisational skills and exceptional attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously. Excellent relationship management and communication skills. Skilled in managing suppliers, timelines, and customer expectations. Strong problem-solving skills, proactive and adaptable. Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management tools. Desirable: Knowledge of FMCG NPD processes and manufacturing. Degree in Business, Project Management, or related discipline, or qualified by experience Professional certification (e.g., APM, PMP, RICS). Values Put customer needs at the centre of every decision – Customer First Deliver excellence in process, detail, and execution – Be the Best Collaborate with colleagues, suppliers, and customers – Stronger Together Proactive and solution-oriented – Make It Happen Mindful of sustainability and quality at all stages – Socially Responsible General To take responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of yourself. Actively follow the Company’s Health and Safety Policy, procedures, and safe systems of work Actively follow the Company’s Environmental Policy and procedures and play your part in the achievement of environmental initiatives Be responsible for your quality of work and ensure that any quality checks required are carried out.Seek support as necessary To observe and continually promote equal opportunities and diversity To undertake all reasonable training activity designed to support you in your role To gain an understanding of the company’s products To note, understand and comply with the Company policies and procedures. These documents will be available on People HR and available to sign independently. To undertake any such other reasonable duties within your skillset as may from time to time be required by your manager