New Product Development Manager, Maidstone
Client: Advocate Group
Location: Maidstone, United Kingdom
Job Category: Other
EU work permit required: Yes
Job Views: 2
Posted: 04.06.2025
Expiry Date: 19.07.2025
Job Description:
New Product Development Manager
Location: Accrington, Lancashire
Type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £55,000 + benefits
Are you interested in leading innovative food projects for a well-known UK food manufacturer? We are hiring an NPD Manager to oversee the entire product development cycle, from concept to market launch. This role offers a great opportunity for a proactive food professional to influence product strategy in a dynamic environment.
About the Company
Our client is a reputable UK food manufacturer with a strong heritage and a presence in major supermarkets. Based in the North West, they focus on innovation in savoury chilled and frozen foods, operating with a lean structure that promotes speed and autonomy.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Commercial, you will manage the full NPD/EPD process, including kitchen development, factory trials, and product launch. You'll collaborate with various departments, managing timelines, documentation, and approvals.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead NPD and EPD projects from start to finish
* Manage project timelines and meetings
* Develop kitchen concepts based on trends and briefs
* Handle costings, packaging, and validation processes
* Work with Technical on specifications and documentation
* Coordinate tasting sessions and benchmarking
* Support Capex projects with Engineering
* Ensure readiness for product launch
What We’re Looking For
* Experience in food NPD, preferably in chilled/frozen sectors
* Strong project management and communication skills
* Ability to work independently
* Hands-on approach with attention to detail
* Excellent organizational skills
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office; MS Project is a plus
* Experience with both own-label and branded products is desirable
Why Join?
* Product Autonomy: Lead the full NPD process
* Cross-Functional Exposure: Work with Technical, Commercial, Operations, and Engineering teams
* Fast-Paced Environment: Agile with minimal bureaucracy
* Impact: High visibility in an innovation-driven team
The Advocate Group is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. By applying, you agree to our Privacy Policy, available on our website. We act as an employment agency for this vacancy.
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