A multibillion-dollar global food manufacturing business supplying major retail and foodservice customers across international markets is seeking a highly motivated NPD Manager to join its expanding team.

This is a key leadership role within the NPD function, responsible for driving product development strategy, managing projects end-to-end, and working closely with commercial teams and customers to deliver innovative, high-quality products.

The Role

Reporting to the NPD Controller, you will lead product development activity from concept through to launch, ensuring projects are delivered on time, meet customer expectations, and align with business objectives.

You will play a highly visible, customer-facing role, collaborating across internal teams while overseeing critical paths, managing technical compliance, and supporting commercial growth through innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage product development projects from concept through to launch

• Manage and drive critical paths to ensure timelines and processes are met

• Act as a key customer contact, managing relationships and ensuring requirements are delivered

• Ensure BRC processes and documentation are completed and maintained

• Oversee product approvals and product matrix management

• Collaborate with Technical, Supply Chain, Commercial and senior stakeholders

• Support and contribute to customer presentations and commercial proposals

• Monitor market trends, consumer insights and competitor activity to support innovation strategy

• Maintain accurate internal documentation and reporting

• Support and guide members of the NPD team where required

• Champion company culture and continuous improvement

Ideal Candidate

• Experienced NPD professional ready to take ownership of projects and customer relationships

• Confident managing multiple development programmes simultaneously

• Strong commercial awareness and ability to align innovation with business strategy

• Comfortable presenting to customers and senior stakeholders

• Proactive, organised and able to lead in a fast-paced environment

Essential Requirements

• Degree in Food Science or related discipline

• 2–3+ years’ experience in an NPD role at Assistant Manager, Senior Technologist or similar level

• Strong knowledge of product development processes within food manufacturing

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

• Full driving licence and willingness to travel (UK and international)

Working Environment

This is primarily an office-based and customer-facing role. While flexibility may be offered where possible, the NPD team typically works on-site or travels due to the nature of product development and customer engagement.

You will work closely with NPD, Commercial, Technical, Supply Chain, Logistics and senior leadership teams to deliver projects from concept through launch.

Benefits

• Competitive salary

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (rising to 27 days after 5 years and up to 30 days with service)

• Contributory pension, Life assurance scheme, Private health insurance, Healthcare cash plan, Employee assistance programme

Recruitment Process

• Stage 1: Online interview with Hiring Manager and Head of HR

• Stage 2: Face-to-face interview with Hiring Manager and Director

Why Apply?

Join a stable global organisation committed to developing its people and delivering innovation across international markets. You will play a key role in shaping product development while working in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Applications are welcomed from talented individuals of all backgrounds.

Location:  Hertfordshire (primarily office-based with travel)
Salary: £37,000 – £40,000 depending on experience
Job Type: Full-time, permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Eligibility: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK (sponsorship not available)