Overview
Are you dynamic and strategic with a passion for driving and leading innovation in chocolate and confectionery? We are looking for an NPD (New Product Development) Manager to lead the end-to-end development of innovative food products, from concept to market launch. You will take full ownership of the development lifecycle using the GATE process and partner with cross-functional teams—including Marketing, Operations and Technical—to deliver products that are on-brand, consumer-focused, and technically sound. This role requires collaboration, attention to detail, and the ability to deliver exceptional results in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Strategic Product Development: Lead the ideation and development of new products aligned with consumer trends and business strategy.
* Collaborate with Sales to define product briefs and identify market opportunities.
* Manage multiple concurrent NPD projects, overseeing budgets, timelines and resources.
* Develop detailed project plans, proactively managing risks and ensuring milestone delivery.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as the key liaison between internal departments and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment and communication across the board.
* Product Specifications and Compliance: Develop and maintain accurate product specs, ensuring compliance with internal policies, BRC, and customer requirements. Oversee the creation and approval of technical documentation and sign-off packs.
* Trial Management and Optimisation: Coordinate factory trials and pilot runs; analyse outcomes and work with production to optimise processes for scalability. Work closely with production to ensure scalability and efficiency in manufacturing processes. Represent the business in customer meetings, presenting concepts and incorporating feedback into development. Monitor product performance post-launch and drive insights back into the NPD pipeline. Champion process improvements across the NPD lifecycle.
What You’ll Bring
* Proven experience in end-to-end NPD project management within the food or FMCG industry with a proven track record of successfully launching new products.
* Strong understanding of the GATE process and stage-gate methodologies.
* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
* Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g. BRC) and regulatory compliance.
* Ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders and tight timelines.
* A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with attention to detail.
Seniorities and Employment
* Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Product Management and Marketing
* Industries: Food and Beverage Manufacturing
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