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About the Business
My client is a fast-growing hospitality group operating across multiple QSR concepts. With a centralised head office in South London and a fully integrated supply chain, they take pride in controlling every aspect of our product development and delivery process.
This role sits within their dedicated Product and Innovation function and plays a crucial role in the continued growth and relevance of our dessert-led flagship brand.
Role Overview
They are looking for a New Product Development Manager to lead the creation, optimisation, and commercial evaluation of menu items with a strong focus on desserts and beverages. You will be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of products, from concept through to market launch, and expected to be hands-on in the kitchen and lab from day one.
Reporting directly to the founder, this is a highly strategic and operational role with real influence on business performance and customer experience.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead Bi-Annual Menu Development: Drive updates to the menu every six months, creating new food and drink offerings aligned with seasonal trends and consumer preferences.
* Manage Full Product Lifecycle: Evaluate existing menu items, remove underperforming SKUs, and introduce high-performing, profitable alternatives.
* Innovation with Commercial Focus: Balance creativity and customer appeal with strong cost control and operational feasibility.
* Ensure Compliance: Manage allergen information, calorie counts, and meet all legal and nutritional compliance requirements.
* Trend & Consumer Insight: Build a deep understanding of consumer preferences, especially females aged 15–35 and Gen Z customers.
* Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Work closely with teams in marketing, operations, and supply chain, as well as external suppliers and manufacturing partners.
* Supplier Engagement: Manage and build strong supplier relationships to ensure quality ingredients and efficient sourcing.
What Success Looks Like
* Successful launch and performance of new menu items
* Improved profitability across product range
* High levels of innovation and Gen Z engagement
* Seamless operational rollout of new products
* Reduction of low-performing or outdated menu items
About You
* Experienced in NPD, ideally within QSR or Restaurant environments
* Highly creative but commercially grounded
* Strong understanding of product costing, margin management, and operational delivery
* Familiar with food trends, customer insights, and consumer psychology
* Excellent communicator and collaborative team player
* Passion for food, innovation, and fast-paced environments
What’s on Offer
* Statutory pension and enhanced healthcare coverage
* Flexible and field-based working structure
* Travel expenses covered for trips outside London
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