NPD Manager

NPD Manager Rochdale, Greater Manchester Up to £65,000 per annum Days Based Monday to Friday Permanent The Company An established FMCG manufacturing business operating within a fast-paced and innovative environment. The business has a strong focus on quality, customer requirements and developing new products that respond to changing consumer and market demands. They are looking for an experienced NPD Manager to lead new product development activity and work closely with internal teams, customers and suppliers to successfully bring new concepts to market.

The Role The NPD Manager will take ownership of new product development projects, managing the journey from initial concept and development through to successful launch. You will work cross-functionally with Commercial, Operations, Procurement, Technical and Process teams to ensure projects remain commercially viable, achievable and delivered to agreed timescales. You will also play an important role in shaping the innovation pipeline, identifying opportunities within the market and strengthening relationships with key customers.

Key Responsibilities Lead new product development projects from initial concept through to launch Develop and manage project plans, priorities and key development timescales Drive the innovation pipeline in line with commercial objectives and market opportunities Work closely with customers to understand requirements and develop commercially viable product solutions Identify emerging market, consumer and competitor trends to support future development Bring internal departments together to ensure NPD projects progress effectively Work alongside Commercial, Operations, Procurement, Technical and Process teams throughout development Ensure new products achieve the required quality, cost and commercial expectations Build effective relationships with suppliers and utilise their expertise to support innovation Coordinate product development activity while maintaining clear communication across the business Identify opportunities to improve NPD processes, efficiency and ways of working Support ingredient and packaging decisions with consideration for quality, availability and cost Maintain accurate project documentation and development records Monitor project progress and address potential delays or challenges Support successful product launches and post-launch activity Maintain strong relationships with customers and key internal stakeholders

The Person Previous NPD management experience within food manufacturing or a similar FMCG environment Strong experience taking new products from concept through development and into launch Genuine passion for food, innovation and product development Strong project management and organisational skills Commercially aware with an understanding of product cost and value Confident working directly with customers and managing key relationships Able to work effectively across Commercial, Technical, Operations, Procurement and Process functions Strong understanding of consumer trends and the wider FMCG market Creative approach to product development with the ability to turn ideas into deliverable projects Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple development projects simultaneously Degree educated or able to demonstrate strong relevant industry experience Confident using Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook Self-motivated, accountable and comfortable taking ownership of projects Right to Work in the UK Keywords NPD Manager, New Product Development Manager, Product Development Manager, Innovation Manager, Food NPD, FMCG NPD, Food Manufacturing, Product Innovation, Product Development, Concept Development, Product…