New Product Development Manager
5 days ago
Caerphilly
NPD Manager Job Overview An exciting opportunity has arisen for a New Product Development (NPD) Manager to join a fast-growing and award-winning food manufacturer based in South Wales. With a strong track record of innovation and a dynamic pipeline of new product launches planned over the coming years, the business is currently investing in a brand-new, purpose-built test kitchen 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. • 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. NPD Manager Job 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. NPD Manager Salary & Benefits • £45,000 salary, • 33 days holiday, • Full benefits to be discussed Bennett & Game Recruitment are acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this vacancy.