NPD Manager

The Company Creating nutritious and delicious meals that consumers across the nation get to enjoy is the number one mission for this well-established food manufacturer. They are now looking to bring a passionate and capable NPD Manager into the team, to continue their mission for success.The Role This is a brand-new role where you will lead a small NPD team. You will work from concept through to launch on complex food products that are nutritionally beneficial, delicious and convenient. Working closely with the commercial team, you will collaborate with leading UK retailers to ensure new briefs are understood and can be achieved. You will then use your technical understanding to create delicious new concepts, that take into account new ingredients, new technologies and ensures the high quality and production potential are achieved.Working closely with production teams, you will then have technical know-how to run trials and overcome production hurdles, always striving for innovation, commercial viability and the highest food safety standards. You will liaise cross-functionally to ensure key milestones are met, and projects are on track.A key part of this role is also taking existing products and seeking improvements, whether this be in terms of cost, ingredients or ease of production. You will also collaborate with internal international teams to transfer products into the UK market, adopting new technologies to achieve results.The Person We are looking for an accomplished NPD professional who has gained a Food Science degree, and concept through to launch experience within the UK food and drink industry. Previous food manufacturing experience is essential, in order to hit the ground running and understand the ins and outs of this role from day one.Experience within a complex food category, whether this be chilled convenience, ready to eat, or processed meals, is essential. An understanding of the latest food trends and ingredients, as well as a knowledge of nutrition.You will have strong communication skills, with a proven track record of influencing, energising and nurturing a team. If you also have a strong hands-on process background, with a passion for utilising new technologies and techniques to create great tasting products, this would be highly advantageous.Ref: L6793---Due to the large number of applications our opportunities attract, it sometimes takes us time to thoroughly review and consider them all. We endeavour to respond to every application within 5 working days, however if you have not heard from us within this timeframe, we are sorry to say your application for the role has not been successful. To support you in showcasing your best self, we make sure that any necessary accommodations, whether physical or non-physical, are provided to assist you throughout the job application and interview process.Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas.At Blue Spark Organisation we believe in authenticity, individuality, and inclusion. We are dedicated to ensuring that all our current and future candidates have equal opportunities and are treated with respect and appreciation, allowing them to bring their genuine selves to the workplace, regardless of background, appearance, sexual orientation, or beliefs.