New Product Development Manager
Location:
Accrington, Lancashire
Type:
Permanent
Salary:
Up to £55,000 + benefits
Job Description:
Are you interested in leading exciting food innovation projects for a well-known UK food manufacturer?
We are hiring an NPD Manager to oversee the full product development process, from concept to market launch. This role offers an excellent 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 known for quality and innovation in savoury chilled and frozen foods, with a strong presence in major supermarkets and deep roots in the North West.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Commercial, you will manage the entire NPD/EPD process, collaborating with Technical, Engineering, Category, and Operations teams to meet project deadlines and standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead NPD and EPD projects from start to finish
* Manage project timelines and meetings
* Develop kitchen concepts based on trends and customer briefs
* Handle costings, packaging, and validations
* 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 skills
* Ability to work independently
* Detail-oriented with commercial awareness
* Excellent organizational skills
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office; MS Project is a plus
* Experience with both own-label and branded products
Why Join?
* Product Autonomy – Lead the full NPD process
* Cross-Functional Exposure – Work across departments
* Fast-Paced Environment – Agile and minimal bureaucracy
* Impact – High visibility in a lean team
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