NPD Manager

Responsible for leading end‑to‑end new product and existing product development (NPD & EPD) from initial concept through to final production, responding to customer requirements and development briefs. The role involves ensuring that all commercial, technical and production criteria are considered and products align with the company’s category strategy. Responsibilities Generate and monitor the critical path to launch for projects.

Support recipe development alongside Development Chefs. Sourc new raw materials in conjunction with purchasing and technical teams to ensure viability. Generate initial product development costings.

Attend internal gate review meetings. Prepare customer presentations, including sample and documentation. Carry out pre‑launch factory briefings and coordinate first production with the Senior Process Technologist.

Coordinate post‑launch reviews. Qualifications Strong NPD experience in food manufacturing, with chilled food experience desirable. Strong customer‑facing experience with multiple retailers.

Track record of delivering new products to market, ideally in chilled food. Knowledge of UK and European food regulation and legislation. Food Safety Level 3 and HACCP Level 3 certification.

Good IT skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint. Excellent interpersonal, communication, organisational, project management and problem‑solving skills. Ability to generate innovative, pragmatic solutions and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Passion for food, strong work ethic and professionalism. Benefits Salary sacrifice schemes – including electric vehicles, home & tech, cycle to work and SMART pension. 33 days annual leave, including bank holidays, with option to purchase extra holiday. Discounts via the company retail platform and enhanced retail discount programme.

Free product sampling across sites. Electric vehicle charging points at selected sites. Health & wellbeing support – 24/7 access to GroceryAid, free on‑demand exercise classes, gym discounts.

Free diet & nutrition advice and thousands of healthy recipes. Online wellbeing resources and financial tools such as mortgage calculators and budgeting aids. Equal Opportunity We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to fairness, equity, inclusivity and respect.

If you need a reasonable adjustment at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know and we will support you confidentially. #J-18808-Ljbffr