Senior NPD Technologist / NPD ManagerChilled / Ambient Food Manufacturing – Central Belt of Scotland Family-Owned Business | Major Retailer SupplierOverview An exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior NPD professional to join a successful, family-run food manufacturer with a strong reputation for innovation and quality. Supplying major UK retailers, this business continues to invest in its people, product development and long-term growth. You will lead end-to-end NPD, managing one direct report and reporting into the Head of NPD.Key Responsibilities • Lead product development projects from concept through to launch • Turn customer briefs and consumer insights into commercially viable product solutions • Manage NPD critical paths to ensure on-time delivery within cost and quality expectations • Oversee recipe development, factory trials, benchmarking and sensory evaluation • Collaborate closely with Technical, Process, Operations and Commercial functions • Support customer engagement, presentations and site visits • Ensure all product specifications, labelling and artwork adhere to legal and customer requirements • Drive continuous improvement and innovation within the category • Mentor, support and develop a direct report as part of the NPD teamSkills & Experience • Degree-qualified in Food Science or related discipline — essential • Demonstrable experience in NPD within UK chilled or ambient food manufacturing • Strong understanding of food safety, product formulation and commercial constraints • Previous experience working with major UK retailers • Excellent communication and cross-functional stakeholder management • Confident managing multiple projects and shifting priorities • Prior line management or leadership responsibility preferredWorking Rights Applicants must have full and unrestricted right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available for this role.Package • Competitive salary depending on experience • Full-time, permanent role with long-term career prospects