Job Title: NPD Manager
Reporting to: Head of NPD & Marketing
Aligned to: Signature Flatbreads
Location: Dunstable
Package: Circa £35-45k + pension
Date: 23.09.25
Job Purpose
To develop and launch new product concepts, driving these concepts through the development process to launch on time and to cost, ensuring that Quality standards are upheld. Building relationships with key stakeholders within the customer base so as to be first in their thoughts for new briefs
People Management and great communication skills advantageous.
Knowledge of bakery advantageous however not essential however a passion for food and a drive to succeed is!
Time management skills absolutely necessary and following customer critical paths and internal process a requirement.
3 Days minimum at Dunstable site, 2 days flexible working
Accountabilities
New Product Development
* To ensure the business is at the forefront of innovation and aware of new competitor launches and current food trends.
* To be part of the customer business unit, working alongside all internal functions to deliver best in class NPD.
* To ensure that all new products are developed in line with product briefs. These must be commercial work in practice.
* To take ownership of the NPD process by helping put in place procedures and a clear workable process, which is clearly defined within the business. Ensure compliance and communication at each stage effectively both internally & externally.
* To ensure that all raw materials sourced are in line with preferred suppliers & customer brand standards.
* To ensure that customer presentations are carried out professionally and knowledgeably at all times.
* To manage the delivery of NPD from concept to launch including managing customer visits.
* To ensure that all developments satisfy price, quality, technical & operational parameters by means of a feasibility process.
* Ensure that all products developed are in line with company strategy
* Ensure that all developments are well communicated to all internal functions
* Ensure all customer NPD/EPD plans are regularly reviewed & updated
* Modify existing recipes to the given requirements eg. upgrading, reducing cost, reducing salt etc.
* To ensure that product benchmarking and new product panels are being carried out both internally & externally (with customers)
* Ensure a smooth handover to the respective site by way of a handover meeting. Follow products through to 1st factory trials with the process team and then launch.
* Work hands-on in the kitchen when required.
* Ensure that the team work with a “can-do” attitude challenging and innovating ahead of our competitors
* Modify recipes(EPD) post trials when necessary
* Work closely with account managers to bring direction & NPD focus
Innovation & Market Awareness
* To ensure a rolling NPD/EPD programme with aligned customer through projected plans
* To maintain an up-to-date knowledge of the food retailing market, eg. via trade press, food magazines & competitor shopping, to ensure development of cutting edge & market leading products.
* Carry out all necessary benchmarking activity on a regular basis.
* Attend/Lead innovation, brainstorming & ingredient workshops when required.
* To have a strong awareness of consumer trends – work closely with marketing to improve customer insight
Customer Skills
* Develop strong & lasting relationships with customers by continual communications by way of updates on NPD & EPD plans
* Present new products & upgrades to the customer in a professional manner, demonstrating your bakery, food ingredient & process knowledge & expertise. Preparing samples, presentation packs & any theatre required.
Others
* To coordinate and communicate the status of all NPD & EPD projects
* Ensure a close working relationship with the Sales team
* Attend internal & external taste panels when required
* Attend and lead weekly NPD meetings
* Attend site development meetings when possible
* Evaluate new & existing raw materials when required
* Conduct store visits on a regular basis
* Ensure a close working relationship with the site
* To be aware of and comply with customer brand standards and Food standards
Knowledge and Skills/Training/Experience
* 1-2 years experience in an NPD manager role with retail customer experience
* Food science degree
* Great project & time management skills
* Skills & experience of customer contact including presentations
* Drive & impetus to go out & seek new ideas and drive to launch
* Excellent interpersonal & communication skills at all levels
* Able to work both as an individual & a team player
* Need to be creative and have a thirst for knowledge
* Not frightened to challenge the “norm”
* Have an outgoing & confident approach
* Basic computer literacy – excel, word, powerpoint
* Demonstrate an above standard knowledge & understanding of food
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