NPD Innovation Manager

The Company

Join an award-winning food innovator and lead exciting new product launches while working with a brand-new, purpose-built test kitchen and managing your own skilled team in a fast-growing business that's investing heavily in its future.

Overview:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a New Product Development (NPD) Manager to join a dynamic food manufacturer based in South Wales. The company has a strong track record of innovation with an ambitious pipeline of launches planned over the coming years, and is currently investing in state-of-the-art facilities to support future growth.

This role is ideal for a passionate foodie who enjoys working with ingredients and wants to be hands-on in developing both branded and own-label products from concept to launch.

Reporting directly to the Head of Commercial, you'll lead the end-to-end NPD process and manage a small, skilled team including a Packaging Technologist and an NPD Process Technician. Working cross-functionally with Commercial, Technical, Operations, and Marketing teams, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering innovation that meets both customer and commercial needs.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead and manage the full NPD lifecycle, from initial concept through to market launch

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and successful project delivery

- Oversee and support the development of direct reports in packaging and process development roles

- Partner with National Account Managers and Brand teams to translate market insights into winning products

- Conduct market trend and competitor analysis to drive innovation and identify opportunities

- Manage critical paths, resources, and budgets to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery

- Maximise use of the new test kitchen facility for creative development, trials, and presentations

- Support product trials, shelf-life testing, and internal/external product showcases

Requirements:

- Strong background in food NPD, ideally within dairy, spreads, or similar chilled categories

- Passion for food, ingredients, and innovation

- Proven experience managing the concept-to-launch process

- Skilled in leading and developing teams

- Excellent communication and project management skills

- Ability to work collaboratively across multiple functions and levels