Interim Innovation Manager

Position: Interim Innovation Manager (6-month contract)
Location: King's Cross

Interim Innovation Manager (6-month contract)

Location:

London (Hybrid – 2–3 days per week in office)
Rate: £33.52 per hour

Hours:

37 hours per week
Contract length:
Approximately 6 months

We are seeking an experienced Innovation Manager to join a fast-paced marketing function on an interim basis. This role will support the development and delivery of a strong new product pipeline, driving innovation from early insight through to commercial launch.

Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will play a key role in identifying growth opportunities, shaping innovation strategy, and ensuring new product developments meet both consumer needs and commercial objectives.

Key responsibilities

Innovation & Strategy

* Maintain and develop the innovation funnel aligned to brand and sales objectives

* Monitor competitors, market trends and retailer strategies to maintain competitive advantage

Consumer Insight & Exploration

* Commission and manage qualitative and quantitative consumer research

* Identify unmet needs, white-space opportunities and emerging trends

* Leverage insight tools to develop a deep understanding of target consumers

Concept Development

* Partner with marketing and R&D to create compelling, viable product concepts

* Plan and manage concept testing and validation activity

Commercialisation

* Build and deliver robust business cases, including margin and cost considerations

* Lead cross-functional project teams through the stage-gate process

* Define product briefs including claims, technical requirements and features

* Oversee packaging development and relevant testing activity

Leadership

* Provide clear leadership across multifunctional teams

* Manage budgets and control NPD expenditure

* Collaborate with international stakeholders to maximise launch potential

Skills and experience required

* Significant experience (typically 8+ years) within innovation, NPD or marketing in a consumer goods environment

* Proven track record of delivering successful, insight-led new product development

* Strong understanding of consumer research methodologies (qualitative and quantitative)

* Experience working closely with R&D, procurement, manufacturing and external agencies

* Solid knowledge of packaging development and technical product requirements

* Commercially astute, with strong financial and margin awareness

* Confident communicator with the ability to influence senior stakeholders

* Creative, pragmatic and highly organised, with a “can-do” attitude

* Comfortable working at pace and adapting to changing priorities

What’s on offer

* Competitive hourly rate of £33.52

* Hybrid working with a minimum of 2–3 days per week in a London office

* Opportunity to make a tangible impact within a high-profile innovation agenda

This role would suit an experienced Innovation Manager or senior marketer looking for a hands-on interim assignment where they can quickly add value