Product Development & Packaging Lead – Food Industry
An established food manufacturer is seeking a Product Development & Packaging Lead to drive end-to-end product and packaging development for major retail customers on a 12-month Fixed Term Contract.
This key customer-facing role involves delivering high-impact projects in new product development, packaging renovations, and compliance.
* The primary contact will be responsible for managing all product development, renovation, and packaging initiatives with customers.
* Lead projects from concept to launch, ensuring timely delivery aligned with customer KPIs.
* All new and existing products must meet customer specifications, policies, and quality standards.
* Manage packaging design, artwork, and copy approvals based on final product specs.
* Submit customer specifications Right First Time (RFT) and within agreed timeframes.
* Organise and lead customer meetings and technical visits to manufacturing sites.
* Monitor and report on product performance through benchmarking panels and customer KPIs.
Key Deliverables:
* Projects delivered to brief, on time, and with full customer satisfaction.
* All specs, artwork, and packaging approved within the critical path and green-scored at launch.
* Proactive communication, documentation, and stakeholder engagement.
* Controlled budgets and cost-effective project execution.
Requirements:
* Proven experience in private label management with major UK retailers.
* Strong customer focus and ability to manage multiple stakeholders.
* High levels of analytical thinking and a passion for product/process improvement.
* Excellent presentation and influencing skills to move initiatives forward.
* Strong organisational skills and proficiency in Excel.
Benefits and Details:
Salary bracket: £40,000 - £45,000 + bonus and benefits
A 12-month Fixed Term Contract
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product development and packaging management, excellent communication skills, and a passion for innovation.